San Marcos residents: No out-of-pocket cost for NCAA tournament

By Luke Baker, Brycen Khek
Guest Column

San Marcos residents will not have to pay out-of-pocket to host the first two rounds of the NCAA Women’s Postseason Basketball Tournament.

The University Events Center is one of five sites hosting March 21 and March 22 the first and second round games.

Charlotte Wattigny, the innovation manager for the San Marcos’ Convention and Visitor Bureau, said San Martians should have no fear about hosting the tournament.

“All of the money for the event is coming from the NCAA, Texas State, or the allotted budget, it doesn’t come out of residents’ pockets,” Wattigny said.

Wattigny said the city is focusing on highlighting the positive aspects of San Marcos, such as the river and downtown, in order to provide a welcoming environment for the anticipated guests and those watching at home. The only noticeable changes would be team banners hung on the Charles Austin and C.M. Allen roads.

“Although fan participation will be limited to six player passes per team, we anticipate leaving a lasting impression on the 3,000 players, coaches, staff, team guests, and NCAA officials,” Wattigny said.

The city is also anticipating the event being a welcome boon to the local economy.

Josie Falletta, the downtown coordinator for the city of San Marcos, said the city is intent on providing businesses with any support they can give after a full year of COVID-19.

“We have so many resilient businesses downtown, but it has not been an easy year,” Falletta said.

Falletta said the city is working closely with local shops and restaurants downtown to welcome visitors into the area.

“We are very excited for this boost to the economy,” Falletta said. “We’re highlighting the open-air cafes and social distancing spaces to give fans the ability to space out and eat outside safely.”

ESPN will provide coverage of the tournament. Fans, attendees, and San Marcos residents are encouraged to follow the city’s social media @toursanmarcos and @downtownsanmarcos for more information during the tournament.