The Coady Roundball Classic ( formerly the Chicago Hoops Classic ) is celebrating its 15th anniversary as the pre-eminent gay men's and women's basketball tournament in the world. This year's tournament, playing host to more than 30 teams from all over the United States and Europe, tips off April 9-10 at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
For the third consecutive year, the tournament will be hosted at the University of Illinois' Chicago ( UIC ) campus adjacent to downtown Chicago. UIC's five courts under one roof allow for all the men's and women's games to be played at one fantastic location. The Division 1 college facility is complete with locker rooms, extra half courts for shoot-around and concessions.
This year's tournament will be a celebration of its history. Last year, the tournament announced its name change to the Coady Roundball Classic in honor of the tournament's founder, Sam Coady. Coady served as tournament director for the first 13 years and is largely responsible for the tournament's quality, recent growth and international popularity. In addition, the tournament committee will be inducting new members into its Hall of Fame. Hall of Fame presentations will be made at the Tournament Banquet, Saturday, April 10 at T's Bar and Grille.
Other social events include: Friday night's team/player registration and welcome party hosted by SPIN Nightclub and Sunday's Championship Games at UIC followed by an Awards Party at Hydrate.
The Coady Roundball Classic is the largest and longest running gay and lesbian annual basketball tournament in the world. For complete information, early entry discount, host hotel and general tournament information be sure to check out www.WCAA.net . E-mail chicagobasketball@sbcglobal.net .