Release courtesy Donna Muta, Special Events Coordinator - City of Hammond

Hammond Mayor Thomas M. McDermott, Jr. along with the Valparaiso University Athletics Department is pleased to announce an open Valpo Men’s and Women’s Basketball practice to be held on Saturday, October 20 at the venerable Hammond Civic Center. 

“This is an effort by everyone involved to support the One Region campaign across Northwest Indiana.  It is a unique opportunity for people to see the only Division I basketball program between Chicago and South Bend play at no cost.  It is our hope this event is well attended, not only by athletes around the area, but by anyone who supports regional events,” said Mayor McDermott.

This event came about as the One Region team traveled to New Jersey last year.  Valparaiso University President Mark Heckler spoke with Hammond’s Fifth District Councilman Dave Woerpel during the trip about possible event ideas.  They decided to make this happen. 

“This is precisely the kind of event we want to cross-promote and build up our area.  We are excited to have the teams play in Hammond,” says Councilman Woerpel.

The event is free and open to the public.  There will be a pre-event Valparaiso University alumni reception featuring local breweries and food concessions will be available for purchase. 

“We're excited to be able to bring the Region's Division I men's and women's basketball programs to the historic Hammond Civic Center,” said Valparaiso University director of athletics Mark LaBarbera. “It will be a great opportunity to showcase our teams in front of our Lake County fans as we prepare for our second season of competition in the Missouri Valley Conference.  Thank you to the City of Hammond leadership for partnering with us to make this event possible.”

Here is a brief outline of the event:

Date: Saturday, October 20, 2018

Time: 2:00 pm 

Place:  Hammond Civic Center, 5825 Sohl Avenue

Admission:  Free

Pre-Event:

• Valparaiso University Alumni reception
• Games and activities for kids
• Photos with The Crusader mascot

Main Event:

• Open Practice with Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams

Post-Event:

• Meet and greet with student-athletes
• Autograph session
• Photos with The Crusader mascot
• Visit vendor tables

For more information, email Donna Muta at the Hammond Civic Center, mutad@gohammond.com or Lexi Nichols at Valpo Athletics, lexi.nichols@valpo.edu.