Tournament of Champions participants arrive

By Joe Hickman, KY3 Sports

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Since they are the team at the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions with the most titles, it was only fitting that Christ the King of Middle Village in Queens (New York City) was the first to arrive in Springfield for the 26th annual version of the event.

Christ the King also plays in the first game at 5 on Thursday against one of the two Springfield teams involved, Hillcrest.

Christ the King coach Joseph Arbitello was a player on the Royals team that came to Springfield in 1994. For his memories on the game, please view the accompanying video.

Memphis White Station, a four time T of C champion, also worked out at the JQH Arena on Thursday along with United Faith Academy of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Milton, Georgia, ranked 15th in the nation in the USA Today poll, along with Sagement, Florida, arrived in Springfield late Wednesday night.