Helping Lead the Event Planning Efforts at the 2026 Panini Hoophall Classic

By: Damon Markiewicz

Springfield College Event Coordinator Karen Joy '24 once again joined her teammates in the Office of Conferences and Special Events (CASE) to help lead the efforts in hosting the 2026 Panini Hoophall Classic at Blake Arena. Joy, along with CASE Director Kathy Smith and Associate Director Kerry Ernst D'Amours '07, work with leaders at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and current Springfield College student leaders to make sure the five-day event remains the top high school basketball showcase in the country.

Joy earned a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Athletic Coaching from Springfield College. As part of her efforts during the Hoophall Classic, she coordinated event logistics, managed schedules, and supervised staff to ensure seamless event operations. Her coaching and student leadership background helps bring people together.

What have been your specific roles at the 2026 Hoophall?

Karen Joy: My fingerprints are on many aspects of the Panini Hoophall Classic Tournament. I help across pretty much all areas of event setup and operations. I work closely with facilities and external vendors to coordinate load-in, setup schedules, and logistics, ensuring everything stays on track. I handle credentials on the Springfield College side, making sure staff and VIPs are properly set up during the tournament. I coordinate directly with Public Safety and external security teams to address access, safety, and operational needs as they come up. In addition, I assist with apparel distribution for players, officials, and staff. I also step in as a point person for problem-solving and last-minute needs throughout the event.

How has your Hoophall experience helped your career path?

Karen Joy: My career path did not always point toward events, but working my first Hoophall as a sophomore with Campus Activities and Special Events (CASE) changed that. I really enjoyed the teamwork and problem-solving that went into putting on an event of this size, and over time, I took on more responsibility and became someone who could float between areas and help wherever needed. I tried my best to become a bit of a Swiss Army knife, which turned out to be very advantageous. After graduating in May 2024, I continued working with CASE as a temp for a year, and as of August, I am now a full-time Event Coordinator. Hoophall played a big role in getting me to this point and really changed how I look at this type of work. Being involved in so many aspects of the event sparked a strong interest in event coordination and leadership and helped shape my decision to apply to graduate school. This fall, I'll be starting my Master's in Athletic Leadership at Springfield College, which feels especially fitting given the school's history and its connection to basketball.

What is your favorite aspect about being a part of the CASE team at Hoophall?

Karen Joy: My favorite part is seeing everything come together once the event starts. The energy in Blake Arena that weekend is hard to beat, and it is really rewarding to see all of the planning pay off. I also love the teamwork during the weekend, since everyone is focused on the same goal and willing to help wherever needed. It's really cool to see Blake Arena before setup and then watch it completely transform once everything is in place.

In your opinion, why is the Hoophall such an important event for the College and the students?

Karen Joy: Hoophall brings the entire campus together in a way few events do. Communications/Sports Journalism students gain hands-on experience covering a nationally recognized event. Sport Management students serve as liaisons and supervisors; and first-year Sport Management students volunteer as part of their coursework. Departments like Facilities Management and Harvest Table are also essential, and the event truly would not be possible without them! Hoophall highlights the collaboration and experiential learning that make Springfield College special.