Macker Deadline Extended; Teams Have Until Monday, May 26 to Register

COMSTOCK PARK, MI - The Grand Macker at Fifth Third Ballpark is back for a third year and the registration deadline has been extended. The 3-on-3 basketball tournament, which is presented by Spectrum Health, will tip off at Fifth Third Ballpark on June 7 and 8. Teams can now register online at www.macker.com through Monday, May 26.

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.

If you're not able to register your team online, registration forms for the tournament are currently available at Fifth Third Ballpark and Grand Rapids Public School buildings. Registration forms are also available at www.macker.com. Teams can drop off completed forms at the Whitecaps offices at Fifth Third Ballpark. The deadline to turn in forms for the event is Monday, May 26. Teams can also register online at www.macker.com through Monday, May 26.

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, Blue Cross Blue Shield and MVP Sports Clubs are all on board as official sponsors.

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.