Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
Life is full of different challenges and battles. Some are personal and some are not. I've heard of the Battle of the Bands, the Battle of the BCS Bowls, the Battle of the Sexes and even the Battle of the Bulge. Now there is the Battle of the Boardroom. This is not your typical bottom line vs. bottom line battle! I'm talking about the second annual United Way Corporate Hoops Challenge sponsored by Zions Bank and the Utah Jazz. This corporate basketball battle will take place February 9-22, 2005 at the state-of-the-art Zions Bank Basketball Center.
This is a great way to have fun and gain bragging rights in the Salt Lake business community at the same time. Twenty-four teams, each with a 12-person roster will represent corporations along the Wasatch Front. Team members will receive a jersey and a pair of shorts, featuring their company logo. But before you think you've got an extra edge, only one college letterman and one retired professional are allowed on each team. No cheating!
The best thing about this battle is that 100 percent of the proceeds will go directly to the United Way of Salt Lake. These funds will lend a helping hand to the more than 100,000 area residents who live near poverty level. Last year, the tournament helped raise more than $30,000 for United Way.
Games will take place during evenings and on Saturdays throughout the tournament. Each team is guaranteed at least four games, but can play as many as 10, depending on their on-court success. The first-and second-place teams will be presented their awards at halftime of the Jazz game on Feb. 23. The winning teams will receive 30 tickets per team for the players, coach, manager, and corporate president and spouses.
This year's battle is going to be a great tournament, and it's for such a great cause. There really is nothing like friendly corporate competition! I hope to see you there!
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
