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Family Fun At SportsFest in Metro Detroit


February 18, 2012
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Price: Free Admission
- New! Athlete autographs require a one-time $10 donation to Student Heart Check.
Parking: $5 per car

Join 97.1 The Ticket, Detroit's Sports Station and home of the Detroit Lions, Tigers, Pistons and Red Wings, for the third annual SportsFest on Feb. 18, 2012. SportsFest is the ultimate sports nut convention, featuring past and present Detroit athletes, clinics, games, prizes and fun for the entire family.

Meet Detroit athletes
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the chance to meet former and current players and coaches for the four major Detroit teams, the Tigers, the Lions, the Pistons, and the Red Wings. Some special Detroit team mascots will also be making appearances. Autograph sessions are scheduled throughout the day, handled via both ticket and lottery systems. Visitors also have the chance to attend and ask questions at roundtable panel discussions with Detroit team figures and 97.1 The Ticket broadcasters.

Activities for all ages
In addition to meeting athletes and mascots, both kids and the young at heart will enjoy the event's interactive games, including inflatables for the kids, driving simulators and free-throw booths. Attendees can also participate in speed-pitch machine batting practice and youth clinics to help improve their skills. Memorabilia displays will allow fans of all ages to relive great moments in Detroit sports history.

Related: Best Places For Cold Weather Activities With Your Kids In Detroit

Shopping and eating
Vendors will be on site selling Detroit sports memorabilia, and official Detroit team gear will be available. Fans can relax and take a break from the SportsFest activity at the event's Sports Pub; alcoholic beverages are available for those at least 21 years of age. No outside food or beverage is permitted within the Showplace, and alcoholic beverages must stay in the building at all times.

The Ticket
2012 is the third year that 97.1 The Ticket has hosted SportsFest, instituted as a way to thank Detroit sports fans for their support of the station and their passion for the Detroit teams. The Ticket will broadcast live from the event, and can be heard on-air at 97.1 FM, online at www.971theticket.com and through mobile devices. On-air personalities will be available to meet and greet with event attendees.

SportsFest is not only a haven for Detroit sports fans, but also a great opportunity for kids and young athletes to meet their heroes and learn more about their sport. The many programs and activities, combined with free admission, make SportsFest the perfect family fun day.

Related: Reasons To Visit Detroit In 2012
Follow the #SportsFest conversation on Twitter.
Get full details and related content at the SportsFest homepage.

Jennifer Walker is a freelance writer living in Detroit. She earned her bachelor's degree in animal science from Michigan State University. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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