APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – Police, firefighters, and EMS crews from across northeast Wisconsin stepped onto the same field — but not for an emergency.
Capital Credit Union hosted its second annual Local Heroes Softball Game at Neuroscience Group Field in Appleton. The event is part of the credit union’s “Elevate Communities” initiative, which contributes more than $100,000 each year to public safety agencies.
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The friendly matchup gave first responders a chance to connect off-duty and build relationships with others in their field.
“A lot of these individuals, this is the first time they’ve met each other,” said Steve Zich, Chief Marketing Officer at Capital Credit Union. “It’s truly like a fraternity — they get out there, start throwing the ball around, and that friendship just happens.”
The game featured teams of law enforcement and fire/EMS. While both sides brought plenty of energy and good humor, the police team took home the win for the second straight year — beating fire/EMS 9-3.
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“I came to have fun until I found out we’re playing firefighters,” joked Shawano County Sheriff’s Deputy Chancellor Pelzek. “Now… we’re going to win.”
Organizers say the game is about more than competition — it’s about honoring first responders and strengthening community ties.
