By: Tabitha Bacus
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is celebrating its ten year anniversary this summer. The last ten years has brought many successes along the lines of: the addition of the Winter Games; hosting the State Games of America; and contributing to the economic growth of West Michigan by generating more than $28 million in visitor spending over ten years. The Meijer State Games could not have achieved these feats alone. Here are ten key to the success of the Meijer State Games of Michigan:
Photo taken by Cal Fagley
1. Athletes – We wouldn’t be anywhere if it weren’t for our athletes! Thank you to our participants for their dedication to their sports and willingness to compete!
2. Tournament Directors – Tournament Directors play a large role in the key to the success of the Meijer State Games. These men and women take time out of their days to work with the Meijer State Games’ staff to organize, spread the word, and execute tournaments that athletes will enjoy participating in.
2018 Volunteer of the Year: Jeff DeRegnaucourt
3. Volunteers – The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a nonprofit organization that relies heavily on the help of willing volunteers and trusted partnerships. Thanks to Lake Michigan Credit Union for their support of our volunteers and for volunteering during Opening Ceremony!
4. Partners – The partnerships the Meijer State Games of Michigan has with venues, vendors and other organization has been vital to the success. The assistance of partners like East Kentwood High School in providing space for operations and many sports each year and the help of the West Michigan Whitecaps for Opening Ceremony have been vital for the Summer Games success. To our partners: thank you for the strong foundation you have provided for us. To learn more about our partners, click here.
5. Interns – Over the years the Meijer State Games of Michigan has had many great interns who have put in hard work to make the Winter and Summer Games a success. Looking for experience in working in or marketing for sporting events? The Meijer State Games of Michigan provides its interns with work experience in event management and marketing. To learn more about our internships, click here.
6. Venues – West Michigan has many amazing sports venues. The Meijer State Games has been lucky enough to work with 60+ venues ranging from Grand Rapids-area venues like Van Andel Arena and university sports complexes, to lake shore venues like the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and Grand Haven State Park.
7. West Michigan Sports Commission – The Meijer State Games of Michigan is the signature event of the West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC). The vision of WMSC is to enhance the greater Grand Rapids through sports. Having the support of the WMSC has been vital to the creation and success of the Meijer State Games. Learn more about the West Michigan Sports Commission.
8. Advocates/Supporters – Word of mouth is a very powerful thing. At the Meijer State Games, we strive to provide an excellent experience for all of our athletes and supporters. The experience that people (whether athletes, volunteers, spectators, etc.) have with the State Games of Michigan turns those same people into advocates that help us to reach more athletes around the state. We would like to give a special thank you to the Secchia Family for donating to help us send two athletes to the State Games of America in August! Join the Secchia Family in helping send Michigan athletes to the State Games of America, by donating now.
9. Sponsors – The State Games has been honored to receive support from amazing sponsors. The support of our sponsors has enabled the Meijer State Games of Michigan reach the ten-year mark. To our sponsors: we are grateful for all that you do to help us grow. To learn more about our sponsors, click here.
10. National Congress of State Games (NCSG) membership – Being a member of the NCSG has allowed the Meijer State Games of Michigan to grow into the event that it is today. The ability to learn from and share ideas with thirty other State Games organizations has been invaluable to the growth to the State Games. The membership also allows Michigan athletes to go on to compete at the State Games of America.