LANSING — Just like the NCAA tournament, Sen. John Proos’ annual Southwest Michigan Spirit Tournament has come down to the final four schools.

“This competition has been celebrating our schools, inspiring creativity and promoting community pride for three years,” said Proos, R-St. Joseph. “The response to this spirit tournament has been impressive. Fans of area schools have submitted thousands of photos and videos that reached tens of thousands of people who have cast hundreds of thousands of votes.”

The contest began on March 9 with 31 area schools. The schools that advanced to the Final Four are the Bridgman Bees, Marcellus Wildcats, Niles Vikings and Sturgis Trojans.

This year, more than 10,000 people have participated and have submitted hundreds of photos on Facebook, Twitter and Proos’ website to score points for their team.

“I once again launched this contest to give our students and communities the chance to show that no one has more spirit than Southwest Michigan,” Proos said.

The Final Four ends at noon today. Points will be tallied, and the two schools that will play for the championship next week will be announced on Facebook and Twitter.

As in past years, this year’s winner will receive a special tribute signed by Proos, their state representative, Congressman Upton and Governor Snyder. The champion will also be presented with a traveling trophy that is presently held by last year’s champion, the Marcellus Wildcats.

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