BEDFORD – The 3rd Annual Mark Starr Cutter Classic, a basketball tournament honoring the memory of a beloved teacher and coach, will be held on Saturday, January 25th, at the Bedford Middle School Gymnasium. This annual event is set to bring together local 8th-grade boys’ and girls’ basketball teams from Bedford, Mitchell, Springs Valley, Tri-West, Bloomfield, and Seven Oaks for an exciting day of competition.
The tournament will feature girls’ teams from Bedford, Mitchell, Springs Valley, and Tri-West and boys’ teams from Bedford, Mitchell, Bloomfield, and Seven Oaks. Games will begin at 8:30 a.m. with the girls’ teams, and the day will conclude with the last championship game scheduled for approximately 5:15 p.m.
All proceeds from the event will support the Mark Starr Scholarship, established in honor of Mark Starr, a cherished teacher for 19 years who coached Bedford Middle School girls’ basketball at Bedford Middle School and was a freshman girls’ basketball coach at Bedford North Lawrence High School. Starr tragically passed away in the fall of 2021.
The tournament was first organized in 2023 to celebrate his life and legacy while supporting the scholarship in his name, which benefits students in need.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, January 25th, 2025
- Location: Bedford Middle School Gymnasium
- Game Schedule: Starting at 8:30 a.m. with the girls’ teams; last game at approximately 5:15 p.m.
- Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for students (admission is good for the entire tournament)
- 50/50 Drawing: A chance to win cash prizes
- Silent Auction: Items available for bidding include IU Football tickets for next season, signed merchandise from Coach Cignetti, a night at the Hampton Inn, and several themed baskets created by BMS students and teachers.
“We’re excited to continue this tradition and honor Mark’s legacy,” said Ed Cobb from Bedford Middle School. “This is a great day of basketball, and we look forward to seeing the community come together to remember a dear friend and support the scholarship in his memory.”
The Mark Starr Cutter Classic is a memorable event for basketball fans and the Bedford community. Come enjoy a full day of competitive sports while remembering a special individual who made a lasting impact on those around him.
