On Thursday, Aug. 13, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) donated nearly 100 new and gently used basketballs from Hooplandia to the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club and the Westfield Boys & Girls Club. ESE Director of Sales Tim Garstka delivered the donation, which has an estimated retail value of $2,500, to each club.
“We really appreciate the donation of Hooplandia basketballs to the club!” said Bo Sullivan, “The basketball program is very popular here, and this obviously helps the program thrive. Our kids look forward to Hooplandia every year. They can’t wait for summer to get here and have some great competition from the area. We thank Hooplandia for the basketballs and all they do for our kids!”
Hooplandia is the Ultimate 3x3 Basketball Tourney + Festival, located at ESE, which is situated in the birthplace of basketball: Greater Springfield, Mass. Since the summertime event’s debut year in 2023, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Massachusetts have been the weekend-long tournament’s philanthropic partner.
“We are proud of our strong partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Western Mass.," said Hooplandia General Manager Drew Dawson. "In the spirit of building community through sports, everything we’re trying to accomplish with Hooplandia, we’re thrilled to be able give back while helping countless youngsters further develop a love for the game.”
“On behalf of our board of trustees, staff and our club kids, I want to thank Eastern States Exposition and the Hooplandia team for thinking of our kids and for their generous donation of basketballs,” said Dan D’Angelo, President and CEO of the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club. “Everyone at the club is so grateful for the incredible long-term support and collaboration we share with the tournament. I know that, with the season coming to an end, this was a very great way to wind down the summer!”
This partnership underscores Hooplandia’s commitment to fostering positive change in the lives of young individuals within our community. The festival aims to support and enhance the programs provided by the Boys & Girls Clubs, creating a lasting and meaningful impact on the children of our region.
Hooplandia will return to West Springfield, Mass., in the summer of 2027, but you can also get a taste of the tourney at Hooplandia Day at The Big E on Saturday, Oct. 3. Find more information about the occasion on TheBigE.com.