Local Bank Backs Football Opener

August 16, 2007

WEATHERFORD, Okla. – Southwestern Oklahoma State University has entered into a partnership with the Bank of Western Oklahoma to co-sponsor the university’s season-opening football game against storied rival Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

The game, which is being promoted as the Bank of Western Oklahoma Kickoff Classic, will begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 23 at Milam Stadium. The much anticipated meeting between the two bitter football foes is the first time since the 1996 season they have met on the gridiron. That year SWOSU defeated NWOSU in back-to-back games, the second of which was the NAIA National Semifinals. The Bulldogs would go on to win the NAIA National Championship a week later.

Bank officials will be recognized in a pre-game ceremony and will also take part in promotional activities planned before, during and after the game.

“We are always looking for new and creative ways to strengthen our position as one of the premier banks in the state of Oklahoma,” said David Terry, Sr. vice president and Assistant CEO. “This is that type of vehicle. The game seemed fitting considering our deep western Oklahoma roots and we are excited to be asked to be a part of it.”

Bank of Western Oklahoma has 6 locations in western Oklahoma, Weatherford, Elk City, Cordell, Vici, Geary and now Woodward.

Prior to the game, BOWO will have an open registration at SWOSU’s organizational fair for interested persons to enter into a punt, pass and kick competition. The organizational fair will take place on the south lawn of the Student Center earlier in the day. One lucky contestants will be drawn and compete for a cash prize at halftime of the football game.

SWOSU Assistant Athletic Director Rouben Tourian said several items including two large tailgate parties are planned prior to kickoff near the Wellness Center.

“This will be a really festive atmosphere. Both schools have worked hard to make this a big event,” Tourian said. “We are anticipating a large crowd, many of which will be students because of the unique Thursday night setup. A lot of alumni have indicated their interest, and I think we’ll see a lot of people on both sides of the stadium.”