The Grand Macker is Back
Published on May 14, 2007 under Midwest League (MWL1)
West Michigan Whitecaps News Release
COMSTOCK PARK, MI - The Grand Macker at Fifth Third Ballpark was such a success at its new location in 2006 that it's back for a second year. The 3-on-3 basketball tournament, which is presented by Spectrum Health, will tip off at Fifth Third Ballpark on June 9 and 10.
The Macker has always been the primary fundraiser for the Grand Rapids Public Schools athletic department. Since the Macker's inception more than 15 years ago, close to three million dollars has been raised, which has allowed the department to avoid a pay-to-participate program.
"Spectrum Health is pleased to continue supporting the Macker tournament, particularly after the event's successful comeback last year," said Richard C. Breon, President & CEO, Spectrum Health. "Our mission is to improve the health of the community, and this event is an excellent forum for promoting physical activity and teamwork among young athletes."
2006 was the first year the event was held outside of downtown Grand Rapids. It was cancelled after the city became unable to provide financial support. With the tournament's fate unknown, the Whitecaps and Spectrum Health stepped in to make sure the event continued to prosper.
"We had the ability to provide the infrastructure that was missing in downtown Grand Rapids," said Whitecaps CEO/Managing Partner Lew Chamberlin. "We are very adept at running family-friendly, controlled events and that's what the Macker tournament is. The event in 2006 was such a success that we started planning for 2007 the day after the final hoop was taken down."
This year, Spectrum Health has again stepped up as the presenting sponsor of the event. Coca Cola has also committed to helping Grand Rapids student athletes by acting as an associate sponsor of the Macker, while Universal Forest Products, Life EMS and MVP Sports Clubs are all on board as official sponsors.
"We're really thrilled to see the community coming out and offering to help with this event in such a big way," said Chamberlin. "This should be another great event at Fifth Third Ballpark."
Funds raised from the Macker Tournament will be used to avoid a pay-to-participate program for GRPS student athletes. Organizers hope the event yields $100,000 for the school district.
Registration packets for teams interested in playing in the tournament are currently available at Fifth Third Ballpark and Grand Rapids Public School buildings. Registration forms are also available on-line at www.macker.com. The deadline to turn in forms for the event is Monday, May 21.
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