Tournament Workers Make It Happen

 by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

The 2023 Montana 3B District Tournament was held from February 15th to 18th at Colstrip High School. The tournament involved twelve varsity teams (boys and girls) from the surrounding area, with the top three teams advancing to the Montana Class B Divisional Tournament. The tournament was a great success, with over 3,000 people attending the event. Colstrip Public School has hosted the event for over 10 years. In that time, there have been hundreds, if not over a thousand different people that have worked the event to make it a reality. This is an extraordinary contribution by the Colstrip community of time, energy and passion to serve the greater community and those communities surrounding Colstrip. It is truly something to behold. 

 

This year, on Championship Saturday, Tournament Director, Andrew Torgerson asked tournament workers and girls basketball team members from Colstrip and Lodge Grass to help present the flag that was brought to the school by the Army National Guard. Unfortunately not all of the workers were able to participate, due to the responsibilities at hand, but it was an opportunity to recognize so many that have worked so hard. Please keep in mind that those pictured are only a few of those that work the tournament.

 

It takes such a large number of volunteers and workers for this tournament. In fact, it would be remiss to try to name all of the individuals that work to make this event happen. With that in mind, I will attempt to provide an overview of those that are a part of making this tournament a successful event. In doing so, the District would like to thank and acknowledge the following groups and individuals for their contributions.

 

Organizers: The tournament was organized by the MHSA 3B District and hosted by Colstrip Public Schools.  Tournament Director and CHS Athletic Director Andrew Torgerson and High School Principal Robin Nansel were responsible for organizing the tournaments and making sure everyone and everything was in place. The MHSA provided the rules, regulations, and guidelines for the tournament.

 

Volunteers: The success of the tournament was largely due to the efforts of the volunteers who gave their time and energy to make the event possible. Over 100 volunteers were involved in the tournament, including parents, teachers, students, and community members. The volunteers helped with a variety of tasks, including ticket sales, crowd control, concession stand operation, statisticians, data management, and clean-up. Enough cannot be said about the effort and work done by our volunteers. They are remarkable and keep coming back to make sure this event is a success.

 
Officials: The tournament was officiated by certified officials who were trained and licensed by the MHSA. The officials were responsible for ensuring that the games were played fairly and according to the rules. The officials also helped to maintain a safe and orderly environment for the players and spectators.

 

Maintenance & Custodial Workers: The maintenance and custodial workers were responsible for keeping the tournament venue clean and well-maintained. They were responsible for ensuring that the court was in good condition, that the bleachers were clean and safe, and that the restrooms were clean and well-stocked. Students workers swept the floor between halves and games and made sure it was ready and clean for play.

 

Security: Volunteer security members, Colstrip Police Department and Rosebud Sheriffs Department were responsible for ensuring that the tournament was a safe and secure environment for the players and spectators. They helped to maintain order, prevent fights or disturbances, and respond to any emergencies that may have occurred during the tournament.

 

Concession Stand and Hospitality Workers: The concession stand and hospitality workers were responsible for providing food and beverages for the players and spectators. They helped to keep the concession stand organized and clean and ensured that there was plenty of food and drinks available throughout the tournament. Almost all of the hospitality food prepared and donated in order to provide coaches, drivers, volunteers, security, officials, workers of all types a place to eat and rest.

 

Administrators, Teachers and Staff: This group of individuals were responsible for oversight and response to the needs of the tournament. From security to clean up, this team provided the assurance and follow through to make sure everything goes smoothly. They are the helping hand and volunteer when there is none. Some had specific jobs including score table, clock, official game books, announcements, equipment manager, athletic trainer, and program sales to name a few. They were available at every game (2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM) and were there all four days of the tournament until everything was put up and cleaned up.

Coaches and Teams: Even though this is the group that the tournament serves, it depends significantly on their cooperation, effort, sportsmanship to make sure everyone and everything is respected. They are responsible for putting forth their best effort and representing their schools appropriately.

Others: The fact is that I probably missed someone in trying to provide an overview of the tournament, I have included this category. The fact is that there are so many people, including the fans that make a difference. If I missed someone, I apologize, but thank you all the same.

 

In conclusion, the 2023 Montana 3B District Tournament was a great success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the various workers and volunteers who made the event possible. The event provided a great opportunity for high school athletes to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. It also brought together members of the community and provided a great source of entertainment for local residents. We commend all of the workers and volunteers who contributed to the tournament's success, and we look forward to the next Montana High School Association event. Make Dust Colstrip Montana!

 

GO COLTS! GO FILLIES! 

MAKE DUST OR EAT DUST!

"Get out in front and stay there!"