Hoopfest dealing with hot topic

With temperatures in Spokane threatening to hit triple digits this weekend, Hoopfest organizers have a game plan.

Late last week, Hoopfest placed an order for cool-air misters and fans. Organizers also plan to have extra water on hand for court monitors, who usually spend six to seven hours on the unshaded asphalt courts.

The forecasted high for Saturday is 103 degrees, rising to 110 on Sunday. Hoopest executive director Matt Santangelo and his staff saw that coming over the weekend, and made the extra precautions,

“It’s not the first time we’ve had hot weather, but it definitely the upper boundary,” Santangelo said. “Our biggest concern is for the court monitors, so we’re trying to be proactive and increase the number of water runs we are providing.”

Extra volunteers will be assigned to walk the streets and provide help where needed, said Santangelo, who hopes for some help from players’ families and friends.”

“If you’re a fan, give your court monitor a Gatorade instead of yelling at them about a bad call,” Santangelo said.

As in past events, Hoopfest has four medical tents staffed from area hospitals, plus at least 30 rapid response volunteers, all of who are professionals.

“That’s been in place every year,” Santangelo said.