Feb. 27, 2007

Roby Publishing announced today that the University of Missouri wrestling team finished fifth in national attendance, with an average of 2,961 for its six home duals this season. The third ranked Tigers set attendance marks three times during the season, with the current record now standing at 2,772 fans (set Feb. 11 against Iowa State). Missouri's attendance was boosted by the 6,197 fans that attended the highly successful Beauty and the Beast event, Feb. 9, co-hosted by the women's gymnastics team.

This season's average attendance is a significant improvement over recent years, as last years' attendance of 1,324 didn't even rank among the top-12 in the nation. Of the Big 12 schools that offer wrestling programs, Missouri stands only behind Oklahoma State. The Cowboys finished second overall with an average of 3,749, well behind the leader in attendance, Iowa, which averaged 6,740 fans per dual.

Missouri was one of only five schools to host over 5,000 fans at one of its home duals and one only 13 schools to host over 2,000 fans. In return, the Tigers provided the best draw for two of their opponents, Ohio State and Central Michigan, who set season highs with 2,354 and 1,000 fans, respectively, for their duals against Missouri.

Third-ranked Missouri will host the 11th annual Big 12 Wrestling Championships this Saturday, March 3, at the Hearnes Center. Beginning at 11 a.m., the Tigers will take on wrestlers from No. 2 Iowa State, No. 4 Oklahoma State, No. 7 Oklahoma, and No. 23 Nebraska. Come out and see some exciting wrestling by five of the top 25 teams in the nation. Fans interested in attending can purchase tickets at the Mizzou Arena box office, by calling 1-800-CAT-PAWS or by ordering on line at www.mutigers.com. All-session tickets are $18 for adults or $12 for students and seniors while single session passes are $10 for adults, $7 for students and seniors or $4 for youth with a USA wrestling club card.