Purdue’s Veteran and Military Success Center will co-host Purdue’s inaugural Armed Forces Open — a four-wall handball tournament that will draw players from all over the country to raise money for student veterans, military members and their families.
The tournament takes place March 8-10 at the France A. Cordova Recreational Sports Center (Co-Rec). Community members are welcome to watch the tournament or register to compete. The public is also invited to enjoy live entertainment and local food during the Armed Forces Banquet at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, at VFW Post 1154.
The Armed Forces Open was started by Santino Paolo Alteri, an Active-Duty Navy Officer and doctoral candidate at Purdue. The event aims to support military-connected students at Purdue while strengthening relationships among military members, handball players and the local community. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Purdue University’s Dorothy Stratton Veteran and Military Success Center and its mission to provide a comprehensive suite of wrap-around support services for student veterans, military members and their families.
"We are excited to launch the Armed Forces Open as a platform to showcase the talent and dedication of handball players while contributing to a worthy cause," said Alteri, tournament organizer. "This event embodies the spirit of unity and service ingrained in our armed forces."
In addition to the tournament, members of the Greater Lafayette community are invited to attend the Armed Forces Banquet at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, at VFW Post 1154 on Duncan Road. The banquet promises a night of celebration, camaraderie and entertainment, featuring guest speakers, raffles and a special performance by Frank Sinatra tribute artist Michael Carluccio.
Registration for the tournament and banquet is now open, with detailed schedules and event information available on the VMSC website. For inquiries about the events or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Alteri.
Emily Jones
Communication Manager for Student Success Programs, jone1594@purdue.edu
