CYO to host basketball tournament

SPRINGFIELD The Catholic Youth Organization Basketball League of Western Massachusetts will be host to a special invitational tournament, completing the celebration of its 49th Annual New England CYO Basketball Week.

In conjunction with the Basketball Hall of Fame and ADIDAS Sports, the CYO has combined their annual basketball week celebration with this special event beginning March 23 and running through March 25.

The CYO is extending invitations to any team wishing to participate, with an entry fee of just $125 per team. All teams participating are guaranteed a minimum of two match-ups. Entries will be accepted first come first serve, with event registration taking place at The Basketball Hall of Fame.

The CYO/Hall of Fame/ADIDAS tournament will highlight young talents from over 52 boys and girls teams from New England, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Grades 3-8 are encouraged to participate.

"We look forward to bringing young basketball players to the home of the game. They can showcase their talent, test their skills and they may learn a little history of the game as well," said John F. Maloney, CYO President.

The tournaments will be held over 20 venues throughout the Greater Springfield Area, including American International College, Our Lady of Elms College, Springfield Technical Community College, as well as at many of Springfield's high school courts.

The celebration will also have meet and greets for players with guests including Lt. Governor Tim Murray, who will be an honorary chairman along with Sheriff Michael Ashe and Congressman Richard E. Neal. UCONN's own Kara Wolters will also be in attendance. Springfield's cable local access, Channel 15 will televise the tournament.

The CYO has been serving Western Massachusetts for 50 years, and is proud to bring basketball back to its birthplace in Springfield.