2nd Annual First Responders vs. Special Olympics Wiffle Ball Game Raises Funds for Local Athletes

Wayne County First Responders and Wayne County Special Olympics athletes joined forces for an evening of friendly competition, community connection, and plenty of fun at the second annual First Responders vs. Wayne County Special Olympics Wiffle Ball Game.

Held August 26 at Ida Sue Ball Field, the event brought local first responders and Special Olympics athletes together for a lighthearted game celebrating inclusion, teamwork, and the strong relationship between the community and its first responders.

Ceremonial first pitches were thrown by City of Wooster Mayor Bob Reynolds and Wayne County Commissioner Matt Martin.

The wiffle ball game grew out of conversations with Tricia Huffman, Wayne County Special Olympics Coordinator, and the success of the inaugural Back on the Court basketball game two years ago at Triway High School, which pitted Wayne County Special Olympics athletes against Wayne County First Responders.

In addition to the game, attendees enjoyed concessions, thanks to generous donations from local businesses and organizations. Special thanks to Certified Angus Beef, Bowman Beverage, Frito-Lay, and the Wayne County Police Association Auxiliary Association (WCPAAA). Popcorn and cotton candy were also served throughout the evening.

While concessions were free, attendees were invited to make voluntary donations to Wayne County Special Olympics. Thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, more than $600 was raised for Wayne County Special Olympics sports programs.

The funds raised will remain local and directly support Wayne County Special Olympics sports programs and the athletes who participate.

“This event is about so much more than a wiffle ball game,” said DJ Hall, Community Resource Officer. “It gives our first responders the chance to build relationships with our Special Olympics athletes and brings the community together for a fun evening. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered, donated, and helped make the event a success.”

The First Responders vs. Wayne County Special Olympics Wiffle Ball Game is part of an ongoing effort to create opportunities for Wayne County Special Olympics athletes to connect with local first responders and the broader community through sports and shared experiences.

Organizers look forward to continuing the tradition and growing the event in the years ahead.

And, of course, thank you to everyone who came out to cheer on the athletes and first responders and to contribute to Wayne County Special Olympics.