After months of negotiations and signing a non-disclosure agreement until that was completed, longtime Sayre residents Eric and Jenni Easter can now announce the partnership they have entered into purchasing the Oklahoma Cornhole Association.
Following last week’s OCA State Championship, the Easters could share that they have bought the OCA.
The couple is purchasing it through a partnership with BJ Carter, Cody Dooley, and Clark Arganbright.
The partners have all been active in the OCA.
Their Easters’ interest in cornhole came when they found themselves nearly done raising their children. They wanted to find a fun activity to do together now that they would no longer have their children at home.
“Jenni and I didn’t want to grow apart because are children are raised,” Eric explained. “Some couples don’t know what to do when the kids leave the house, leaving them with an empty nest. For many of us parents, our lives are focused on our children’s activities and caring for them. Then the kids grow up and start their adult lives, as it is supposed to be, but Mom and Dad are left with all this free time. We wanted something to do together that was fun and exciting for us.”
Two years ago, the couple found their answer in cornhole.
They knew they enjoyed it with friends and family and decided it would be an excellent way to stay connected. Of course, their faith in Jesus is always shown through every activity that they do.
“We started the Beckham County Baggers two years ago in November. It has been a ministry for us, too. We have made many friends and had many laughs, but it also let us talk to people who may be struggling and share Christ’s love with them,” Eric advised.
Although they both started out as novice players, Eric said continued practice and competition made them grow stronger.
“We just liked it, and then more people continued to show up,” Eric recounted.
Eventually, they found their way to the Oklahoma Cornhole Association, which brings together players statewide. Eric said that tournaments are held statewide throughout the year.
“Some tournaments have as many as 250 to 400 people,” Eric stated. “They are led statewide. They are held everywhere, from Poteau to Enid to Weatherford throughout the year. There are up to as many 750 members of OCA,” Eric said.
Winners are also rewarded with cash prizes. “We are excited to get up and going this year,” Eric said. “The new season for OCA is about to start in October. We can get points from each player through an app, and the champions are decided through the highest set points.”
Players have different divisions to ensure that they play against others at the same skill level.
The Beckham County Baggers will continue under the direction of Micheal and Sumer Jones.
More information can be found at the Beckham County Baggers and Oklahoma Cornhole Association Facebook pages.
