June 8, 2022
CHN Staff Report
The Great Lakes Invitational, now in its 57th year, will be played in Grand Rapids, Mich., this year — at Van Andel Arena — as opposed to its usual Detroit home.
Two years ago, the tournament wasn’t played for the first time because of the pandemic. Last year, the tournament was held as a “showcase” involving two games each at Michigan and Michigan State’s home arenas.
Michigan, however, famously canceled one of the games for — it claimed — “health and safety protocols.” As a result of the controversy that followed, Michigan will not be part of this year’s GLI. The Wolverines have participated in the GLI every year since 1973.
Instead, Michigan Tech will face Western Michigan and Michigan State will play Ferris State on Tuesday, Dec. 27 in first-round matchups. The winners will play in the championship game on Dec. 28, with a consolation game as well.
“We’re excited to continue the storied tradition of the GLI,” Michigan Tech athletic director Suzanne Sanregret said. “We have always been committed to getting back to a tournament-style event and know that our fans and alumni are excited for the Huskies to defend the title.”
A variety of factors led to the GLI needing to find a new home.
Michigan Tech coach Joe Shawhan said, “We’re really looking forward to getting back to a tournament-style GLI. It’s always a highlight of our season, with quality competition. Our fans and alumni do a great job of supporting us wherever we go, but it’s especially strong at the GLI. It always feels like home.”
The Great Lakes Invitational was first played in 1965 after the idea for the tournament was conceived and implemented by Michigan Tech coach John MacInnes, Olympia Stadium General Manager Lincoln Cavalieri, and Detroit Red Wings Scout Jack Paterson. The tournament has been played at Olympia Stadium (1965-78), Joe Louis Arena (1979–2012, 2014–16), Comerica Park (2013), and Little Caesars Arena (2018-19).
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