Phoenix Coyotes Head Coach Wayne Gretzky attended the American Idol rally on Friday to honor Valley native and American Idol contestant Jordin Sparks. Gretzky presented Sparks with a personalized jersey at the rally honoring the singer in Glendale at the Westgate City Center.

Festivities began at 3:30 p.m. with live performances from past ‘Arizona Idols.’ A procession, which followed at 4:00 p.m., brought Sparks into the Westgate City Center Fountain Park, located at the north end of the retail development. The event was free and open to the public. Sparks also sang songs for the crowd which she has performed during the competition.

City of Glendale Officials organized a sports-themed event honoring Sparks. Members of five local professional sports teams participated, including the Stingettes and Coyotes Pack dance teams.

Sparks, 17, is currently one of three remaining contestants vying for the title of this year’s American Idol. The Glendale native and avid sports fan will be paid her hometown a visit as part of a special segment for the hit FOX television program.

For more information on Friday’s rally, please visit www.glendaleaz.com.