Hoopfest Seeks Additional Volunteers for Upcoming 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

As Spokane prepares for its annual summer basketball extravaganza, Hoopfest organizers are on the lookout for an additional 75 volunteers to help facilitate the world’s largest 3-on-3 tournament. With only three weeks remaining until the event, volunteer coordinator Chad Smith emphasizes the importance of having enough court monitors to manage the approximately 400 courts that transform downtown into a basketball haven.

"It's always nice to have more, and that's just kind of a safe number," Smith stated, noting that extra monitors would provide flexibility in the face of potential challenges such as extreme heat or unexpected dropouts. These volunteers primarily serve as record keepers, ensuring that games progress smoothly and that results are properly logged.

Participants who sign up as court monitors will receive a game ball to take home, along with a t-shirt, a hat, and shorts. Additionally, depending on their experience with Hoopfest, volunteers can earn a gift card valued between $75 and $100 to Dick's Sporting Goods. Smith mentioned that this role is one of the most sought-after positions, appealing to those who enjoy interacting with others.

While extensive basketball knowledge is not a prerequisite, individuals with refereeing experience may find opportunities to officiate closely contested games for younger players in grades four through seven. Most of the tournament’s courts, however, allow players to call their own fouls, making it more about community engagement than strict regulation.

Longtime volunteer Rolfe Will, who has participated in Hoopfest for 17 years, emphasized the joy of staying connected to basketball after a playing career that ended due to physical limitations. “When I do it, my goal is always to have a good time and to have a lot of parents and kids, by Sunday, thanking me,” he shared. Similarly, Richard "Pete" Petersen travels from Portland each year to contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the tournament, finding fulfillment in being part of something larger than himself.

As Hoopfest approaches, organizers hope to attract more volunteers to help create an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike, reinforcing the spirit of community that defines this beloved event.