• The 54th Annual Decatur Turkey TournamentLongtime Director Mel Roustio Ends Decades of Leadership in His Final Decatur Turkey Tournament in 2024

    Decatur, Illinois — The Decatur Turkey Tournament will return for its 54th year in 2024, running November 26, 27, 29, and 30 at Decatur Public Schools’ Stephen Decatur Middle School. Participating schools include Decatur Eisenhower, Decatur MacArthur, Bolingbrook, O’Fallon, Peoria Central, Peoria Manual, Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin, and Springfield Southeast. Click here to view the tournament bracket. 

    This year’s tournament marks the end of tournament director Mel Roustio’s 23-year run.  “Entering this year's tournament, I am reminded of the immense dedication, passion, and leadership Mel has brought to this premier holiday tournament in central Illinois,” stated Dr. Rochelle Clark, Superintendent of Decatur Public Schools. “Mel’s commitment to this community has shaped the tournament into a beloved tradition, creating unforgettable basketball memories for players, coaches, and fans. I am grateful for the lasting impact he has had for the sport of basketball and for the Decatur community.”

    Again this year, all attendees will be screened with metal-detecting wands as they enter Stephen Decatur Middle School. This security measure is in place to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators to the Turkey Tournament. However, security screening with wands may add to the time it takes to enter the tournament doors. We ask all attendees to plan accordingly and allow extra time to get into the tournament prior to scheduled times for tipoff.

    To ensure the health and well-being of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and fans, enhanced safety measures will be in place during the tournament. For the safety of all attendees, prohibited items include: outside food or drink, illegal drugs, vapes of any kind, and weapons. Additionally, large purses and backpacks will not be permitted.

    Only clutch purses smaller than 6.5”x 4.5” or clear bags will be allowed in the venue. Diaper bags and medical bags are permitted but will be subject to search upon entry.