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Athlete party allows Meijer State Games participants chance to gather, unwind

GRAND RAPIDS -- It isn’t just about fun and games during the actual competition in the second annual Meijer State Games of Michigan, which begins tonight with opening ceremonies at Fifth Third Ballpark.

The fun and games continue after Saturday’s full schedule of events.

The introduction of the 2011 Athlete Party at Craig’s Cruisers, 5730 Clyde Park Ave. SW, in Wyoming, is the latest enhancement to the Olympic-style sports festival for an expected 4,500 athletes from across the state.

It provides a gathering place for the participants in 24 sports at 31 sites throughout West Michigan to relax from 4-8 p.m. after they have finished competing in everything from archery to wrestling.

"We took a look at how we could enhance the Meijer State Games from year one and give the athletes a chance to get together," West Michigan Sports Commission Executive Director Mike Guswiler said. "We thought an athlete party could help achieve that. It’s great entertainment and a great pizza and pasta buffet.

"It’s a very family-friendly environment and that’s what the games are all about."

The 2011 Athlete Party, presented by Verizon Wireless Squad, features a $6 all-you-can-eat pizza and pasta buffet for all registered athletes. The buffet is regular price for family members and friends.

It includes arcade competitions, mini-golf challenges and other contests.

Each of the participants in the Meijer State Games also receives one free raffle ticket for a chance to win assorted electronic prizes, including a Samsung tablet computer and the latest models of cell phones.

"It’s just about getting together and having a little more fun," Guswiler said. "It’s scheduled from 4-8 to give all of the participants a chance to be part of things Saturday once they’re through with their events."

Youth basketball dropped
A part of the basketball tournament has been canceled.

The youth competition was scratched due to low registration numbers, according to State Games organizers. The high school portion of the tournament at Grand Valley State University, Allendale Middle School, Allendale High School and other sites nearby is continuing as planned.

Earlier this week, lacrosse was dropped from the lineup.

It still leaves the Meijer State Games with 24 sports -- an increase of nine from the inaugural festival.

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