June is a critical month for team registrations, volunteer recruitment and sponsor engagement, as planning efforts intensify for the community-wide event, said Barb Reisner, Imagination Factor Community Center executive director.

“All proceeds from the 2026 Gus Macker Tournament will support the continued development of the Imagination Factory Community Center and help fund renovations to Floors 2, 3 and the playground,” said Jerry Novickis, Imagination Factory board member.

Players can register online at gusmackerim.org, with the team registration deadline set for July 27.

Gus Macker team leaders are also seeking volunteers for the three-day event. They will host a Student Leader Volunteer Pizza Party on Wednesday, July 1, in the Gus Macker Cafe. Participants are asked to arrive between 5 and 5:15 p.m.

The countdown begins for 2026 Gus Macker Tournament in Iron Mountain, with 2026 sponsors now being sought. Shown are some of the banners from the supporters of last year’s events. (Contributed photo)

Any teen interested in volunteering for the basketball tournament or assisting at the Children’s Museum is welcome to attend, including those who have already signed up.

Tournament activities kick off Friday, Aug. 14, with player registration, T-shirt pickup and skill contests on the top men’s court.

Opening ceremonies will take place at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, followed by the first tipoff at 8:30 a.m. Games and individual contests will continue throughout the day.

Competition resumes Sunday, Aug. 16, with championship games and a trophy presentation scheduled for about 11 a.m.

While the tournament is known for its competitive and family-friendly basketball action, organizers emphasize that its impact extends far beyond the courts.

Shown at the 2025 event are Mike Fuller, left, Gus Macker USA coordinator, and Adam Ray, Iron Mountain police officer and Gus Macker Iron Mountain event team leader. (Contributed photo)

The Macker IM Event Team has established ambitious goals for the 2026 tournament, including attracting more than 25,000 spectators, 300 basketball teams, 100 sponsors and 200 volunteers and game officials.

Gus Macker tournaments are recognized nationwide for providing wholesome, family-oriented entertainment that brings together participants of all ages and skill levels.

Reisner said they expect the Iron Mountain event to generate significant economic activity while offering a weekend of excitement for residents and visitors throughout the region.

Since opening its expanded first-floor Children’s Museum in May, the Imagination Factory has welcomed more than 3,500 visitors.

“Families and children have embraced the larger facility, which offers expanded opportunities for exploration, creativity, learning and meaningful community connections,” Reisner said.

With the success of the first-floor expansion, fundraising efforts are now focused on completing the next phases of the project.

Over the years, Iron Mountain’s Gus Macker Tournament has played a major role in supporting the growth and development of the Imagination Factory Community Center and Children’s Museum.

Funds raised through sponsorships and donations will help create several new community-focused spaces.

Plans for the second floor include a Youth Development Center featuring a training room, career exploration and workforce development programs, bullying prevention initiatives, student leadership development opportunities, youth clubs and enrichment activities. Additional features will include a YMCA Movement Room, an IM-K Kiwanis Career Room and a five-station Virtual Reality Learning Center.

“The opening of the second-floor Youth Center by the end of the year will be determined by the 2026 Capitol Campaign donations,” Reisner said. “We can’t stress enough the importance of raising the funds needed to complete the project.”

The third floor is envisioned as a Community-Family Gathering Center, offering a large event and catering venue, meeting space for community organizations and businesses, a public forum and educational training room, and a family therapy center designed to help individuals and families thrive in a supportive environment.

Businesses, organizations and individuals are encouraged to “Make Your Mark” by becoming a 2026 Gus Macker IM sponsor, volunteering, registering a team or making a financial contribution.

Those interested in becoming a sponsor can also go to the website, https://gusmackerim.org/.

The Imagination Factory Community Center promotes literacy, lifelong learning, career planning, leadership development, volunteerism and family engagement. Board members have established a mission focused on expanding access, increasing community investment, delivering high-quality educational opportunities and creating a welcoming environment where everyone belongs.

“We are proud to be transforming this historic school building into a vibrant community destination that serves people of all ages,” Board President John Estes said.

Reisner added the board thanks all the individuals and businesses who have provided financial support over the years and those who continues to support its mission.

Donations for the project can be mailed to: Imagination Factory, P.O. Box 906, Iron Mountain, MI 49801.

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.