Third annual Hunger Games competition returns January 29

Sports fans have another opportunity to support a worthy cause while cheering on their team as North Central Michigan College hosts the third annual Hunger Games basketball doubleheader on January 29. The Timberwolves will take on the Alpena Community College Lumberjacks in this Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) initiative aimed at addressing student food insecurity.

All funds and food items donated at the January 29 games will support North Central’s Campus Cupboard, a year-round, on-campus food pantry available to any North Central student. In lieu of purchasing tickets, fans will gain entry by bringing a nonperishable food item or making a monetary donation to the Campus Cupboard.

Since its opening in 2019, the Campus Cupboard has provided more than 23,200 meals to North Central students and their families. Pantry items currently in high demand include toiletry and personal hygiene items as well as boxed meals, pasta, canned fruit and vegetables, and diapers. For a full list of suggested donation items, visit www.tinyurl.com/campus-cupboard.

A tradition in the MCCAA since 2014, the Hunger Games unite member institutions through friendly competition while increasing awareness of food insecurity and raising critical funds for local student food pantries.

North Central has dominated the Hunger Games competition in recent years, leading all participating colleges in 2023 and 2024. The 2024 event saw the Timberwolves collect more than 600 pounds of food — surpassing their previous record — and providing 4,606 meals to students in need.

“The generosity of our fans and community continues to inspire us,” said NCMC Athletic Director Ashley Antonishen. “Last year, we set a new record for donations, and we’re confident our community will step up again to support students who rely on the Campus Cupboard. We’re excited to defend our title in the 2025 Hunger Games.”

Fans who would like to contribute but are unable to attend the January 29 games can donate online at www.ncmich.edu/donate.

The women’s game against Alpena tips off at 5:30 p.m. in Petoskey Plastics Arena, with the men’s game following at approximately 7:30 p.m.