Family-Focused Gus Macker Tournament Revives in Twin Cities with Support from Minneapolis Northwest Tourism - Travel And Tour World

The Gus Macker Basketball Tournament is making its return to the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Traditionally held in downtown St. Paul, this year's event will be presented by Minneapolis Northwest Tourism and hosted at North Hennepin Community College. Designed as a family-friendly weekend, the tournament aims to raise funds for six local non-profits dedicated to youth athletics and mentorship. The Gus Macker is a 3-on-3 basketball tournament that fosters community spirit in a festival-like atmosphere, encouraging all ages and skill levels to join the fun and bring along their supporters. Cyd Haynes, CEO of Minneapolis Northwest Tourism and chair of the Twin Cities Gus Macker committee said, "We are excited to bring back this legacy charity event that is a beloved family festival. We believe these two days in August will not only bring together Twin Cities' sports enthusiasts, but welcome alumni Gus Macker players traveling to Brooklyn Park from all around the country. Winners get a trophy at the end of the tournament, and our six recipient organizations can magnify their long-lasting impact in the community." Beneficiary organizations include: This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Gus Macker tournament. It all began when Scott McNeal, aka Gus Macker, invited eighteen neighborhood friends to play basketball on his parent's driveway during March Madness. The tournament's popularity grew, hitting the road in 1987, and becoming a beloved event in recreational sports. Since its inception, the Macker tour has expanded to over 1500 tournaments, involving more than 2.8 million players of all genders, ranging from ages seven to 50+, and attracting over 30 million spectators.