Is it a heartfelt gesture aimed at rallying Tucson, or just a clever marketing ploy?

What’s Going On Here???

As the Arizona sun blazes on, an unexpected opportunity has surfaced for Tucson residents, brought to you by Omni Pools, a local swimming pool construction company. Typically known for their high-quality custom pools, Omni Pools has launched a bold campaign that combines local pride, sports zeal, and a hefty dose of strategic risk-taking. The “Touchdown to Swim” event offers up to $100,000 in pool refunds or credits if the Arizona Wildcats clinch the NCAA National Championship for the 2024-2025 season. 

A Bold Gamble or Clever Marketing?

In an era where businesses often stick to predictable marketing strategies, Omni Pools has decided to take a leap of faith.  By reallocating their advertising budget to place a strategic bet on the Wildcats at the FanDuel sportsbook in Phoenix, they’re certainly attracting curiosity from their recent press release.  But is this really about rallying the Tucson community, or just a savvy way to sell more pools?  Either way, it’s a move that’s a first of its kind in this area and it’s definitely worth having a conversation about.

Omni Pools claims that if the Wildcats win, the first ten customers who sign contracts for a new pool will receive a refund or credit up to $100,000 on their purchase. On the surface, this seems like a win-win situation.  However, it raises questions about the motivations behind such a bold move. Is this truly a heartfelt gesture to support the local team, or a calculated risk designed to generate buzz and boost sales?

Engaging the Community – Or Just a Gimmick, Stupid bet, or both?

The “Touchdown to Swim” campaign is certainly not your typical company promotion. Omni Pools claims that their aim is to create a buzz and foster a sense of unity among Tucson’s residents by giving everyone another reason to come together in support of the Wildcats. By tying their business success to the Wildcats’ performance, Omni Pools invites the community to join them on a shared journey, whether you’re buying a pool or not. But still, is this just a clever gimmick?  

Imagine watching a Wildcats game with the added thrill of knowing that a championship win could mean a significant discount on a brand-new pool, if not pay for the pool in its entirety. It’s a strategy that taps into our love for shared experiences and community victories. But as we cheer for every touchdown, are we also being subtly marketed to? The lines between genuine support and strategic marketing can blur, making us question the true intent behind the campaign.

Investing in the Future – A Noble Gesture?

Omni Pool isn’t stopping at just pool refunds. They are also sponsoring ten students from local middle schools to attend the prestigious Keith O’Quinn Passing, Receiving, and DB Academy in 2025. This sponsorship covers camp registration and travel expenses, ensuring that their investment in the community has a lasting impact. It’s a gesture that speaks to their commitment to youth development and local engagement, but is it enough to sway public opinion in their favor?

Does It Really Matter?

At the end of the day, does it matter what it is? They are still supporting our local Cats, they put their skin in the game, it appears they are asking nothing extra from anyone already looking to buy a pool. 

The Risks and Rewards of a Strategic Bet

Placing a bet on the Wildcats is a bold and unlikely move that reflects a level of confidence and optimism not fully understood by the non-religious among us. It’s not just a financial wager; it’s a public declaration of belief in the team’s potential.  I would imagine, for Omni this must also come with risk. What if the Wildcats don’t win? Will the campaign still generate the desired buzz, will people understand their passion and faith in this cause, or will it be seen as a failed marketing stunt? Again, does it matter? They appear committed and dedicated fans that have a longing for a Hail Mary along with the rest of us.

As word continues to spread about this strange but feel-good campaign, it could attract attention from sports networks, local news, and even national outlets. But the real question is, will it resonate with the Tucson community? Will local Wildcat supporters get it and cheer them and our local heroes to a championship?   Yet to be decided…  

If you are as curious as I was, take a look at their press release or stop by their physical location off Oracle, just north of Orange Grove. Visit tucsonpoolbuilders.com/touchdown_to_swim or contact Omni Pool Builders in person at 6640 N. Oracle Rd. Suite 130, Tucson, AZ 85704. 

Jim McCoy