Gene Robert Kraai graduated from Zeeland High School in June 1977. There are certain exceptional students in every graduating class who leave a mark behind them. Who and what they are makes a significant impact on others. 

Gene Kraai was one of those people. Everyone loved Gene, simply because he loved everybody. He was 6'3" tall, big and strong, as evidence by two consecitve years as a State Wrestling Champion. His junion year, he was in the 185 pound weigh class, and his senior year he was the 191 weight class. His photo still hands in the wrestling trophy case at Zeeland East, as a testimony to his ability. 

Gene was also an outstanding football player. His senior year, he was given the honors of All conference and All State Honorable Mention. 

His heart was as big as his physique; gentleness and kindness were an important part of his character. It is for this reason that the Kraai Memorial Tournament is held in his memory.