Muskegon fire destroys youth football team’s equipment

A fire destroyed equipment belonging to a youth football club in Muskegon - two weeks before the start of practice. Investigators believe the Sunday morning fire may have been intentionally set. Laketon Township Supervisor Kim Arte said state police spotted the fire at Mullally Park from their helicopter. The fire destroyed a press box containing equipment for the Reeths Puffer Youth Football Club. Although the township has insurance to cover its loss, the club does not.

WZZM-TV

Jul 18, 2011

Club spokeswoman Becky Hekkema said more than $8,000 in new equipment was lost, including cheerleading outfits and football uniforms. However, new football uniforms on order had not yet arrived, and the club is getting a grant that will pay for new footballs.

Hekkema said club board members are sad that a group or individual would commit such an act, but they're confident the community will step forward to help the children.