Okmulgee is gearing up for a thrilling weekend on the mats as the Gary McKee Bulldog Classic returns to town Dec. 5-6, bringing together junior high and high school wrestlers from across Oklahoma for two days of fierce competition, sportsmanship and community pride. Hosted inside Okmulgee’ Brock Memorial Gymnasium, located at 415 W. 3rd Street, the annual event honors the legacy of longtime Okmulgee coach and wrestling advocate Gary McKee, whose impact on local athletics continues to be felt decades later. For many programs, the Bulldog Classic has become a staple on the winter wrestling calendar – a well-run, well-respected tournament that consistently draws competitive teams, promising athletes and engaged crowds.

This year promises to be no exception.

— Two Days, Two Tournaments

The 2025 Classic is split into two single-day events to provide a streamlined experience for teams and fans: the Junior High Boys and Girls Tournament and the High School Boys and Girls Tournament, which take place Friday, Dec. 5, and Saturday, Dec. 6, respectively. Weigh-in for the Junior High Tournament takes place at 10 a.m., and with the competition beginning at 12 noon, while participants in the High School Tournament weigh-in at 9 a.m., with the tournament to follow at 11 a.m.

Tournament organizers expect strong participation across both divisions, with full brackets and talent ranging from firstyear competitors to seasoned veterans and state qualifiers.

Organizers plan to use three to four mats throughout the tournament, depending on attendance and pending CDC guidelines, ensuring a smooth, fast-moving format.

True to its reputation, the tournament offers a robust awards package, recognizing outstanding performances across both days:

• Medals awarded to the top four placers

• Placing points awarded to the top six placers

• Team plaques for the top two teams in both junior high and high school divisions

• Outstanding Wrestler Awards for one junior high and one high school athlete For many young wrestlers, earning a spot on the podium at the Bulldog Classic is a milestone moment often their first major accolade of the season.

Admission is $7 for adults and students, though organizers note that seating may be limited due to high attendance and the gym’s historical structure. Only one session will be held each day – Friday for junior high, Saturday for high school.

The 2025 tournament is coordinated by coaches Donnie Delonia and Marlon Houston, Sr., who handle team registration, scheduling, communication and event operations.

For more information, contact Donnie Delonia at 918-5653869 or ddelonia@okmulgeeps.com or Marlon Houston, Sr. at 918-944-8000.

For decades, wrestling has been a point of local pride, producing outstanding athletes, college competitors and even coaches who have returned to help the next generation. The tournament’s namesake, Gary McKee, is remembered not only for his coaching success but for his commitment to building young men and women of character, determination and resilience.