The Jimmy Gerken Memorial Tournament has become a tradition over the past 10 years. Played each Memorial Day weekend – it features some of the top teams in West Michigan.

However, like all memorial events, there is a story behind the story. The Jimmy Gerken Memorial Tournament is the same way.

This event has become so well known, that people talk about “The Gerken” or the “Jimmy Gerken” without stopping to think who Jimmy was and why East Grand Rapids (the host of the event) chose to name a tournament after him.

Here then, is the story behind the Jimmy Gerken Memorial Tournament.

Thanks to East Grand Rapids Coach Chris LaMange for supplying this information!

The 10th Annual Jimmy Gerken Memorial Tournament will take place May 28 & 29, with the semifinals and finals being played at Hudsonville’s Eagle Field on Saturday, May 29.

Jimmy Gerken was a long time supporter/manager/superfan at East Grand Rapids High School, who passed away in January 2002. Jimmy was employed as a part time custodian at East Grand Rapids High School for over 30 years, and was present at almost every sporting event that took place in East over those 30 years.

While Jimmy was a huge East GR fan, he really was happy just being at the games and loved talking to all the people that he met at all of these sporting events.

Jimmy Gerken Sculpture

It was very common for Jimmy to be sitting with the opposing coaches, players, and fans before, during, and after the game. And hundreds of officials knew Jimmy by name, even the ones who threatened to throw him out of the gym or stadium when Jimmy was being a little too vocal on the sidelines!

The Jimmy Gerken Invitational Tournament began Memorial Day weekend in 2001. The tournament was started to bring the top teams in West Michigan together for one last weekend tune-up before the MHSAA tournament.

Jenison won the first tournament and went on to win the first five tournament titles in a row.

Hudsonville then won the title from 2006-2008, and Forest Hills Central is currently the defending champion.

Jimmy, also known as “Kabookie”, was very proud to have his own tournament, and presented the championship trophy in 2001.

Unfortunately for all of us, this was the last tournament Jimmy would see in person as he passed away from complications from pneumonia in January 2002.

The entire community of East Grand Rapids has kept Jimmy’s legacy alive in numerous ways and the East Baseball program is very proud to host the Jimmy Gerken Memorial Tournament each Memorial Day weekend in his honor.

The photo above is of the bronze sculpture, dedicated in August 2002, that sits outside the football stadium at East Grand Rapids in memory of Jimmy.

Here is a Grand Rapids Press article from 2008, remembering Jimmy Gerken:

“Memory of EGR stand-up guy…”

If you can, try to attend one of the games in this year’s tournament. You’ll see some great baseball!

The game may not go your way – your team may take a loss. But, remember to enjoy the moment no matter what. It passes too quickly.

Most importantly, remember Jimmy Gerken and the joy he felt (and brought to others) by cheering on his friends in every game – win or lose.

The wins and losses will fade – but the memory of playing the game will endure – just like the memory of Jimmy…