Three friends fresh from competing in a Chicago-area volleyball tournament asked themselves, “Why can’t we do this in Dubuque?”

That was September. Since then, the idea has snowballed for Luke David, Brad Ronek and Jason Mohr into the First Annual Westend Sports and Music Fest slated for June 28, on the Rite Hite soccer fields off Chavenelle Road.

Twenty courts full of volleyball action, three live bands, and a $100,000 raffle headline the day-long event with a portion of the proceeds to benefit Maria House.” It’s a good cause and an organization people can rally around,” David said.

The festival looks to draw 100, three-member teams from four states to compete in the main event. Nearby will be a separate tourney for six-on-six, co-ed corporate teams to compete. LT Amusements will set up its inflatable carnival rides and games. There will be food; beverages provided by Coke and Budweiser and late in the day 55 names will be drawn of those who will supply a combination to a safe. If the tumblers fall into place the winner will chose one of six vehicles for their prize whose value will be balanced with an amount of cash to equal total winnings of $100,000!

The volleyball action starts in the morning and goes through the afternoon. DJs will supply the tunes until 1:30pm when “Swing Crew” takes the stage, followed by “Kevin Beck & Johnnie Walker” and “Menace” from 8pm to midnight.

There has been no lack of sponsorship support for the inaugural event, many of whom are glad to see a festival on the Westside of the city. “The response we’ve received from some of our corporate sponsors is, ‘It’s about time,’” Ronek said.

Courtside Bar and Grill is the underwriting sponsor. "We're really excited to be a part of this event," said Courtside owner, Jerry David, "This is a great opportunity to raise money for a wonderful cause. We're anticipating a great turnout!"