Services gears up for online March Madness Published Feb. 17, 2010 By 82nd Force Support Squadron SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- More than 20,000 vied for the opportunity to be champion, but only one walked away with the title. But it's time again for people to start thinking about brackets as the Air Force's National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Men's Basketball Championship online tournament kicks off this March. The AF Hoops promotion gives Air Force sports fans -U.S. Department of Defense ID cardholders and otherwise eligible users of Morale, Welfare and Relaxation programs and facilities over the age of 18 - the chance to win big prizes by selecting teams in the tournament. "The beauty of it is you don't have to get the teams right to win prizes," said Heather Newsom, chief of marketing at the 82nd Force Support Squadron. "You have a chance to win just by registering and entering your bracket selections." Pick up game pieces, which are available now, at participating food and beverage activities, including Air Force bowling centers, golf courses and clubs. Participants register online by using the code on the game piece. Return to the Web site March 14 and fill out up to 10 brackets. Picks can be made and changed, but final picks for all rounds must be submitted on March 18 by 6 a.m. EST. The first place prize 0f $10,000 is sponsored by Coca Cola. The second place winner receives $5,000; third place is $2,500, fourth place is $1,000. "In addition to the on-line tournament, folks should stop by one of our activities, they are great places to watch the games," said Marlene Diaz, Sheppard Club manager. "We've partnered with Coke to provide some great prizes." For more information, stop by any participating 82nd FSS food and beverage activity.