More than 130 spectators packed Forest View Park for the debut of the “Heroes on the Field” softball game, pitting police officers against firefighters in a friendly battle for bragging rights.
“The game lasted about 2 hours. We had 20 first responders play,” said Dawn Walczak with the Forest View Park District.
The Fire Department’s “Smoke Swatters” came out on top over the Police Department’s “Cuff ‘Em Crew” in a lighthearted contest that organizers say will become a yearly tradition.
“Village officials, residents, former residents and alumni of our fire and police departments came. I was so proud of this event—it was awesome!” Walczak said.
Mayor David Liska and Tom Cichon — known in town as the “T&D Experience” — handled play-by-play commentary and kept the crowd entertained with on-field banter.
“We even had a bunny run on the field and it sat on third base for a bit. Even the furry friends at the park wanted to take part,” Walczak said.
