Community was very important to Glenn Van Wieren during his long tenure as men's basketball coach at Hope College.
Community was very important to Glenn Van Wieren during his long tenure as men's basketball coach at Hope College.
He often made arrangements to provide tickets to home Hope College games for persons who might not normally have been able to afford to purchase them or otherwise attend a college game.
In 2000 he approached the Holland Sentinel about sponsoring an annual tournament that celebrates community.
"The record of history will show that Glenn truly made a difference for good in the lives of many in our community," said Hope College President Dr. James E. Bultman. "Glenn's living, coaching and serving through Hope College has truly been a blessing from God."
Van Wieren retired from coaching after the 2009-10 season ending a 33-year career as one of the most successful NCAA Division III coaches. The 11th annual Holland Sentinel Community Tournament will celebrate Van Wieren's career and his commitment to community.
Games will be played Friday and Saturday (Dec. 11-12) at DeVos Fieldhouse. Friday's setting will celebrate many of the community organizations close to Van Wieren's heart. On Saturday fans will have an opportunity to celebrate Van Wieren's career.
The tournament will also mark Hope's first home games of the season. Games on Friday will pit Purdue-North Central against Rochester at 6 p.m., followed by Hope entertaining Grace Bible (8 p.m.). Games on Saturday will be at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. with Hope playing in the 3 p.m. game.
A community reception honoring Glenn and Jackie Van Wieren and their family will be held Saturday from 1-3 p.m. at DeVos Fieldhouse. Fans attending the games will have an opportunity to greet the Van Wierens. Persons not planning to go to the games may also attend the reception and are asked to enter the DeVos Fieldhouse through the west (clock tower) entrance. A special recognition will occur at halftime of the 3 p.m. Hope game on Saturday.