More than 50 teams of 3-on-3 basketball players in 10 different divisions will compete in the second annual “Maricopa March Madness: Nate Ford Memorial Tournament” on March 26.
The tournament will be on the outdoor courts at Copper Sky Regional Park and Pacana Park. The players will raise funds to support active duty and veteran soldiers and their families through Military Assistance Mission and the Maricopa American Legion Post 133.
The inaugural tournament was founded by Nate Ford in 2014 as an Eagle Scout project. Ford raised nearly $1,000 for Military Assistance Mission. Ford was killed in a car accident on Aug. 21, 2015, just days before his 17th birthday.
Maricopa March Madness is one of many events his family and friends are using to carry on his legacy and honor his memory.
His father, Doug Ford, said the goal is to raise $5,000 to divide between the two organizations.
“So it will be one day, two locations, 50 teams, 150 players and $5,000 in donations,” he said.
Nate Ford was a two-year varsity baseball and varsity football letterman at Maricopa High School, an Eagle Scout, a faithful priest in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a patriot and a cowboy. He was beloved for his kindness, charity and selfless service. Ford carried a blanket and a pair of shoes in his truck to give to those in need. He never missed an opportunity to shake hands with a soldier and thank them for their service. On Saturday mornings, Ford coached football and soccer. He could be found on Maricopa playing fields kneeling down eye-to-eye to motivate, inspire and uplift young athletes.
[quote_right]If You Go
What: Maricopa March Madness
When: March 26
Where: Copper Sky and Pacana Park
Who: All skill levels, age 10 and up[/quote_right]
Teams are encouraged to register and be part of the legacy. The tournament is open to players of all skill levels, ages 10 and up.
Championship games for each division will be held in the gymnasium at Copper Sky Recreation Center and officiated by local celebrities. The event will include entertainment and activities for the whole family.
MaricopaMarchMadness.com
Facebook.com/MaricopaMarchMadness
Twitter.com/MaricopaMM
This story appeared in the February issue of InMaricopa News.
