3 minute read
MAC Morning Ballers 42nd Reunion: A Day of Laughter, Memories & Hoops
The MAC Morning Ballers — a group of dedicated hoopers that meet Tuesday and Thursday mornings starting well before 6 a.m. — recently gathered at the picturesque event venue Redland Family Farm for a long-awaited reunion to reminisce about the early days.
Forty-two years ago, founding members Mike Nealy, Stan Hubert, Tom Mulfur, and John Vander Cook would recruit ballers who were minding their own business in the gym. Meanwhile, John Pyrch would hoard basketballs in his locker because there was no guarantee a good ball would be available to play with.
At the reunion, Mike Nealy, the heart of the MAC Morning Ballers community, begrudgingly took center stage. Known for his alleged sharpshooting abilities, Mike developed a reputation for his impressive jump shot during his early morning basketball years. Known as the “Commish,” Mike has nurtured a passion for the game and built a community of like-minded individuals who share his love for basketball and MAC.
One aspect of Mike’s game will always remain a topic of amusement and lighthearted banter among the Morning Ballers — his aversion to playing defense. Stories of Mike’s uncanny ability to disappear on the court whenever the opposing team had possession are continually told with enthusiasm. It’s all part of the camaraderie and good-natured teasing that defines the Morning Ballers’ bond, which has grown far beyond basketball.
Traditions like the Morning Ballers’ “Turkey Day” run have evolved to make the group more like a large family. In the early years, a full Thanksgiving dinner was served before complaints that hoopers were already too stuffed when it came time for the family feast. In recent years, Morning Ballers bring their sons and daughters, ranging in age from 6 to 36, to join the fun, with perhaps some hot chocolate and a slice of pumpkin pie for breakfast. Turkey Day has over 50 participants each year!
The group kept the Thanksgiving tradition during the COVID lockdown. When we couldn’t get together in person, members Eric Haskins and Brett Nagle (along with the Commish, of course) started a Turkeys Shoot Free Throws fundraiser for Blanchet House that has raised more than $14,000.
The reunion, generously hosted by MAC Morning Baller Joel Andersen, was a resounding success. Redland Family Farm is a multi-purpose entertainment center that’s perfect for events of all kinds, from weddings and corporate outings to birthdays and anniversaries. The picturesque venue provided an ideal setting for an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie, and nostalgia backdropped by a 300-year-old oak tree.
Morning hoops is open to anyone that wants to join, and you never know who you are going to play against. Celebrity guest ballers have included Ndamukong Suh, Mason Plumlee, Terry Porter, Steve Johnson, Michael Holton, and Adam Sandler. Just be sure to bring your defense along with your jump shot!
— Mike Rosenberg
