Hometown Heroes To Be Honored At University Of Tulsa Home Game Opener

The University of Tulsa football program will honor first responders at their September 1 home game against the Central Arkansas Bears. Police, firefighters and emergency medical personnel are invited to tailgate and attend the game as part of the university's For Our City campaign.

TU Vice President and Athletic Director Dr. Derrick Gragg said in a news conference Tuesday that the school began the For Our City campaign as part of their commitment to contributing to the Tulsa community.

"For Our City represents our commitment to engaging and deepening our relationship with Tulsa and surrounding communities through athletics," he said.

Gragg introduced fire and police representatives from several northeast Oklahoma towns who were standing behind him on stage. A TU alum - and former Tulsa police officer - made it possible for the school to issue two tickets to every first responder that would like to attend the home game opener, he said.

The opening contest is being labeled the For Our City - Hometown Heroes game.

"It is our goal that fans will purchase game tickets and come out to honor our police, fire and EMT at the UCA game," said TU football coach Philip Montgomery.

The Hurricane announced themes for their two home games in September at a news conference surrounded by local first responders.

Each hometown hero will get tickets to the game, a meal at a pre-game tailgate, entertainment at a pre-game concert, T-shirts and the university's thanks. The game begins at 6 p.m. and will be followed by fireworks, Gragg said.

On September 15, at the game against Arkansas State, the team will join the fight against Alzheimer's for the second year in the Alzheimer's Awareness game.