INDIANAPOLIS – The best in collegiate softball will once again descend on Oklahoma City June 2-8 when the 2011 NCAA Women’s College World Series returns to ASA Hall of Fame Stadium. The 31^st annual event, which is co-hosted by the University of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma City All Sports Association, returns to city for the 15^th straight year and the 21^st time in championship history.

“The NCAA is excited to once again be back in Oklahoma City for the Women’s College World Series,” said Sharon Cessna, NCAA Director of Championships. “This championship continues to grow each year as the city has truly embraced this event and has been instrumental in turning it into a marquee tournament for the NCAA and the country. We look forward to celebrating the best of collegiate softball in June.”

The eight-team tournament will feature at least 14 games during the seven-day span that will culminate with the best-of-three championship series June 6-8.

Fans can purchase tickets online at NCAA.com/wcws or over the phone by calling 800/745-3000.

“This has been a wonderful event for Oklahoma City and all of Oklahoma,” said University of Oklahoma Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Programs and Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione. “We welcome the NCAA back for a tournament that has truly grown to a substantial national platform.  We are delighted to remain in a leadership role for the Women’s College World Series.  We were proud to work with community leaders in bringing it to Oklahoma City and proud of our history in not only assisting the effort that brought it to Oklahoma City, but sustaining it during its impressive growth.”   

Fans are encouraged to come out and enjoy the many activities and events surrounding the championship. The NCAA Fan Festival, which is free and open to the public each day, will include several opportunities for fans to test their softball skills in a batting cage and speed pitch along with a poster making station, face painter and balloon artist.

The NCAA is also partnering with the Oklahoma Region American Cancer Society and the National Fastpitch Coaches Association to sponsor the third annual WCWS StrikeOut Cancer Night. Scheduled for Monday, June 6 the NCAA will donate $1 of every ticket sold from that evening’s game to the Oklahoma Region of the American Cancer Society.

Fans attending the game will receive a WCWS Pink Visor, courtesy of AT&T and the NCAA, while supplies last. Other activities include a ceremonial first pitch, a Cancer Survivors’ Celebration Walk in the outfield and a postgame autograph session with the two participating teams.

“It is always a privilege to host any NCAA Championship in your city but when you have the opportunity to host a championship event every year, that makes it really special for your community,” said Oklahoma City All Sports Association Executive Director Tim Brassfield.  “The Women’s College World Series continues to necessitate that we, as a city, elevate our performance in all areas due to its ever increasing growth and popularity. It’s exciting to be challenged by what you have helped create and I am confident that Oklahoma City and ASA Stadium will continue on its journey to remain the perfect home for elite performances in college softball.”

On Tuesday, June 7 the NCAA will host Military Appreciation Night. The NCAA has invited military personnel from all branches of service to attend. Fans are encouraged to wear red, white and blue to show their support and thanks to the military personnel for their service.

Fans will also be treated to a free NCAA WCWS Buff, while supplies last. In addition, the Color and Honor Guard will be on hand and a special American Flag Presentation will take place.

The run to WCWS gets underway Sunday, May 15 when the field of 64 that will play for the NCAA Division I Women's Softball Championship will be announced on ESPNU at 10 p.m. ET.