Playoff games boost for economy

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November 24, 2009

Woodward merchants could see some extra business this holiday weekend as high school football fans flock to town for two playoff games being hosted by Woodward High School.

Seiling will take on Forgan in the Class C playoff game at 7:30 p.m. Friday. On Saturday Laverne will play Garber in the Class B playoff game also at 7:30 p.m.

“We encourage everyone to come and watch some good quality playoff football,” said Woodward Athletic Director Andy Newby.

Hosting the games is a way for the school system to give back to the community.

“People will come to town and spend money going out to eat and shopping at our merchants around town. It’s a way for us to give a little something back to all the businesses who do so much for the school and students,” Newby said.

The high school hosted playoff games last year, and Newby said they jump on opportunities to host tournaments for other sports as well.

“We expect to have a packed house and we really want to showcase Woodward in what we can do and how we treat people,” he said.

Newby said it would not be possible to host games without the help of everyone involved including the school administration and faculty as well as the Woodward Chamber of Commerce.

“Really the list is endless because everyone pitches in to make things look nicer than normal. I would like to say thank you to all the people who are giving their time and effort during Thanksgiving,” he said.

Woodward Chamber of Commerce President C.J. Montgomery said he and local merchants are grateful that the school strives to host games.

“We are fortunate to have not only one game, but two. It’s a great deal for football fans to get to watch two great games,” he said.

Montgomery said merchants in town have called his office applauding the decision to host the games in Woodward. “It’s a great opportunity for them during the busiest shopping weekend of the year,” he said.

Everyone looks forward to the games and people go out of their way to make the visitors feel welcome.

Montgomery said, “It’s a community effort but it starts with Woodward having good facilities to accommodate this many additional folks.”