The annual Parks and Recreation Youth Basketball Tournament in New Hampton, Iowa, successfully concluded on February 11, 2024, despite its scheduling overlap with the Super Bowl. Under the leadership of Parks and Recreation Director Tara Hackman, the tournament attracted 28 teams and provided an engaging experience for both players and spectators.
The event took place at the Chickasaw Wellness Complex, where sixth-grade teams showcased their skills. Hackman expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Good players, good competition, great representatives of a lot of towns and just a lot of fun.” The tournament’s success was particularly noteworthy given the logistical challenges posed by the Super Bowl, which typically draws viewers to their screens by 17:30.
Originally, the tournament had to be postponed a week due to the Upper Iowa Conference wrestling tournament being held at the same facility. This delayed schedule raised concerns about attracting teams, as part of the basketball tournament would coincide with the kickoff of the Super Bowl. To address this issue, Hackman and her assistant, Kayla Flick, approached the New Hampton School Board to request a change in the district’s policy that prohibits activities on school grounds before 13:00 on Sundays. Although discussions about the policy are ongoing, the timing was not conducive for the current year’s tournament.
Instead, Hackman and Flick secured permission to use the Chickasaw Wellness Complex, which allowed the tournament to proceed without conflict with the football game. The facility, managed by the Chickasaw Hoops Club, also operated a concession stand, which added to the atmosphere of the event.
“We tried really hard to make sure the members could still use the track, and it was cool to see so many people in the CWC at one time,” Hackman mentioned, highlighting the positive community engagement. Nevertheless, she hopes for adjustments that would allow future tournaments to use school facilities earlier on Sundays, stating, “Even if it’s not the Super Bowl, to use the school on Sunday, we’re still going until 19:00, which means some teams aren’t getting home until 20:00 or 21:00, and that’s an issue.”
Despite the challenges, the tournament managed to draw a significant number of participants, with Hackman noting, “We had 28 teams – 20 yesterday and eight today – and it all worked out great.” However, she acknowledged the need for improvements, particularly regarding the placement of the concession stand, which was less visible on Sunday than on Saturday.
The Chickasaw Hoops Club reported a successful day on Saturday but struggled with foot traffic on Sunday. “We want them to have a good fundraiser, too,” Hackman remarked, while appreciating the cooperation of the CWC.
As Hackman conducted her final walkthrough of the facility, she reflected on the tournament’s success and the community spirit it fostered. “It was a win all around,” she concluded, emphasizing that the event not only provided excitement for participants but also allowed families to return home in time for the Super Bowl festivities.
