MOUNT VERNON — For the first time in the history of the Ohio State University, tickets to the OSU Spring Game are being sold outside of the university. McDonald’s Restaurants of Central Ohio and the Ohio State University Athletic program, including football, hockey, and men’s and women’s basketball programs have joined forces making McDonald’s the exclusive Quick Service Restaurants sponor for Ohio State Athletics begining July 1.
“We are thrilled to be supporting Ohio State University,” said Shirley Rogers-Reece, McDonald’s vice president and general manager, McDonald’s Ohio Region. “McDonald’s has long been committed to sports programs on every level from T-ball to the McDonald’s All-American Game and this alliance truly demonstrates the committment of both McDonald’s and Ohio State University coming together to further support athletics in the central Ohio community.”
McDonald’s, the leading foodservice provider in the United States, will give Buckeye fans the opportunity to purchase OSU tickets at their local restaurant. And a part of the proceeds goes to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio.
Mount Vernon area McDonald’s Restaurants are participating partners and have already started selling tickets.
“We’re in a group of 30 different operators around Columbus,” said Brian Mortellaro, owner and director of operations of area McDonald’s. “Everybody in that central area are Ohio State fans. We thought it would be a good opportunitiy to get this sponsorship.”
Fans can purchase their tickets to the OSU Spring Game on April 21, at 1 p.m. right here in town, right now while supplies last. The tickets are sold at face value for five dollars with $1 supporting the Ronald McDonald House.
“They are five bucks any way,” said Mortellaro. “I’d rather you buy them at McDonlad’s so we can help the Ronald House as well.”
RMHC of Central Ohio operates in Columbus providing hospitality to families of seriously ill children recieving treatment at nearby hospitals. This partnerships gives the Ohio State teams and their fans the opportunity to team up with McDonald’s to help support those families in need.
“McDonald’s is a long-time supporter of college athletics,” said Gene Smith, university athletic director. “We are excited to have them as a sponsor of our athletic program and look forward to a great long-term partnership. And the opportunity for the university to sell tickets to the Spring Game through 127 local McDonald’s restaurants is a win-win, especially when it will help raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House.”