TEXARKANA, Ark. - In its seventh year of existence, the annual Agent Barry Live United Bowl has continued to grow. But the core of the NCAA Division II football game has remained steadfast.
Henderson State University hosts Missouri Western State University at noon on Saturday with the Griffons attempting to become the first repeat winners.
The teams arrived Thursday, and there are a slew of events the players and coaches will participate in today before focusing on the game Saturday at Arkansas High's Razorback Stadium.
"Well, I think anytime you play in the postseason, it's a good sign that you've had a successful season and a successful program," Reddies head coach Scott Maxfield said. "It gives our alumni, especially our alumni in the greater Texarkana area, a chance to come out Saturday and watch us play.
"It also gives the people who may not get the chance to come to Arkadelphia to see us play, the opportunity to come out and watch the Reddies. Recruiting wise, it gives the local kids in the area the opportunity to come out to Razorback Stadium and to see us first hand."
Henderson State's team will be split at the Runnin' WJ Ranch and Opportunities Inc. for community events at 1 p.m. today, and Missouri Western's players will participate in events at 2 p.m. at College Hill Middle School and Texarkana Resources.
"This bowl game is special because it involves the community, and I had some kids ask, 'Do we get to do the community service again?'" Griffon head coach Matt Williamson said. "Last year, they got to go to some special needs places and got to help teach them how to play volleyball. They did other things, and it was altogether some really good experiences for the team.
"Helping the United Way raise money and making the world a better place is pretty cool. It especially cool when you get to play a game outside of that too."
Following the community events for both teams, each will have a couple hours of practice - the Reddies at AHS, and MWSU at Texas High - and the Jeans, Boots and BBQ Banquet will be held at the Texas High School Cafeteria at 6:30 p.m.
A community pep rally, open to the public, will be held at 8 p.m. in the THS cafeteria/courtyard. Tickets - $10 for adults, $4 for students - remain on sale for Saturday's game and will also be sold at the gate.
The proceeds benefit the United Way of Greater Texarkana.