OKLAHOMA CITY – Each year, Oklahoma City University's athletics teams get involved in the greater Oklahoma City community. Every team gets involved in
Community Service Projects.
Women's wrestling had a successful season, taking 14
th nationally with two All-Americans. But the Stars weren't impactful only on the mats. The team was also active in growing the sport, preparing meals for displaced people, and working to help distribute food to those facing difficulties.
"Our program has completed three community service activities so far this year, each providing meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes to engage with and impact the community," said Head Coach
William McKinney.
The team had weekly interaction with younger wrestlers in the community.
"Each Tuesday night, we host a youth wrestling practice for local junior high and high school girls," said McKinney. "Our athletes take an active role in coaching and training alongside them, which not only helps grow the sport but also builds confidence and mentorship connections. This has had a strong impact on our team by reinforcing leadership skills and creating a sense of responsibility, while also empowering young athletes in our community."
The Stars also worked behind the scenes to help feed the hungry.
"We also participated in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Service Project, where our team helped prepare meal kits for the Oklahoma City Homeless Alliance," said McKinney. "This experience was impactful in helping our athletes understand the importance of service and giving back, while directly supporting individuals in need within our city. Additionally, our team volunteered with the campus food pantry, assisting with unloading and organizing a large resupply from the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. This allowed our athletes to see firsthand the scale of food insecurity in our area and the importance of community partnerships, while also providing essential support to ensure resources are accessible to those who need them most."