21,000 attend annual Christmas tournament at Show Me Center

Central High School and Scott Country Central basketball fans were among 21,400 this week who attended the Southeast Missourian Christmas Tournament at the Show Me Center.

Although attendance was below average the first day, tournament director Mitch Wood said activity increased during the second and third day of the tournament. A total of 16,310 decorated the stands the first three days, and 5,090 attended the Christmas tournament on the fourth day.

"We've had some good matchups," said Wood, who has acted as director for three consecutive years. "Overall, it's went as well as I expected."

Robert Schiwitz of Benton, Mo., said he's loved basketball his entire life and attended the tournament since it was first played at the Show Me Center, seeking out the same seat each time.

"I've only missed about a half a game since it's been at the Show Me Center," Schiwitz said. "You get a good range of talent in the area."

Retired Leopold, Mo., elementary teacher Angela Carlisle said she was excited to see the Leopold Wildcats pull off a win in the consolation round Wednesday. Carlisle has been attending the tournament for more than 20 years.

She and her husband spent their wedding anniversary at the tournament. The couple celebrated 47 years of marriage during Tuesday's series of games.

Despite good attendance and fan enthusiasm, the tournament didn't go without a few glitches. For the first time in many years, tournament directors canceled a game during the second day of the event. Woodland High School in Marble Hill forfeited their game scheduled against Delta High School because many in the district were to attend a funeral.

"It's also probably the first in a while I've had sickness among officials," Wood said.

Although Wood had to fill the spots of five officials, he's been able to rotate in individuals on two-year assignments with the holiday tournament.

"That way it kind of stays fair for everyone," he said.

ehevern@semissourian.com

388-3635