GUS MACKER BASKETBALL CANCELLED FOR 2020

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sheboygan County announced that the Gus Macker basketball tournament will not take place this August. An annual event since 1994, Gus Macker brought basketball players from all over the nation to compete in a 3-on-3 tournament at Sheboygan’s Deland Park. Boys & Girls Club CEO Christina Singh says the decision was made with concern for the safety of the community. “This is a beloved summer tradition that brings together families and visitors for a good cause. But our priority is keeping everyone safe and healthy.”

Gus Macker is the Boys & Girls Club’s second largest fundraiser. Sponsorships and ticket sales generated over $50,000 for summer programming in 2019. Singh says that while it’s the right thing to do, losing the event revenue is hard. “We focus our summer program on learning-loss prevention, well-being, and positive adult connections. That’s become more important now than ever. We need to continue to be there for kids and teens in our community.”

The Clubs reopened in June after pausing their onsite programming due to COVID-19. They now serve youth at four locations up to ten hours a day. Singh is hopeful that there will still be support from the community to keep the summer program running.

• “Donations of any size are helping us keep kids safe, nourished and learning.  We’re hopeful that the support of individuals and businesses will allow us to reach youth who need us most. And we’re hopeful for the return of Gus Macker in 2021.”