ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Detroit Lions' head coach Steve Mariucci will host his second annual Coach Mariucci's Celebrity Bocce Ball Tournament, June 8, at the Palazzo di Bocce in Orion Township, Mich.

The event is being presented by the Metro Detroit Lincoln Mercury Dealers.

Last year, more than 700 people attended the ball and $225,000 was raised for Detroit Lions Charities.

After becoming head coach with the San Francisco 49ers in 1997, Mariucci started a bocce ball tournament in the Bay Area that raised more than $1 million for charity. The tournament is now a success in Metro Detroit.

"We had a great time last year and it will be even better this year," said Mariucci. "Bocce ball is a great sport for all skill levels just to have a good time, and also have the opportunity to meet some celebrities, enjoy great Italian food and beverages, and raise some money for charity."

The Lions' event again will be held in The Palazzo di Bocce, which opened with Coach Mariucci's tournament last year.

Coach Mariucci is inviting celebrities from sports and entertainment from Michigan as well as many from his days in San Francisco to participate. Several current and former Lions will also be involved. Silent and live auctions of unique items and experiences also will be featured.

Several sponsorship levels for the bocce ball tourney are available including four-person teams for $4,000. A limited number of individual tickets also will be available.

For more information, contact Detroit Lions Community Affairs at (313) 216-4171.