Marshfield, WI (OnFocus) The Marshfield Area Special Olympics athletes outperformed the Marshfield Police officers on Friday night, ending the fundraising basketball game 55-46.
The event ultimately raised just over $7,000, all of which stays in Marshfield and helps pays for costs like transportation and entry fees for competitions held throughout the year.
“This is all spent here in Marshfield as we use local companies for our transportation, our uniforms and practice facilities,” said Randy Follen, agency manager.
For every basket the players scored, the Marshfield Professional Police Association donated $10. Officers presented the $550 check to the athletes at the end of the game.
This was the 6th year for the charity event hosted in collaboration with the Marshfield Police Department. Additional proceeds from the free event came from in-kind donations, raffles, door prizes, and concessions.
While the police officers ended halftime with a 7-point lead, the athletes’ comeback in the second half secured victory once again.
“I don’t know how to explain it, other than their hearts are just too big,” said Officer Jamie Kizer.
“I thought the game went very good, but then why wouldn’t I say that as our team won!” said Follen.
Attendance was about the same as recent years despite the event falling on Good Friday this year. Generous donations made the event another huge success for the agency and will ensure the program continues to be free for athletes.
“Most agencies throughout the state charge their athletes to participate in their agency,” said Follen. “These athletes have a very limited income which would eliminate them from being able to participate. This also gives them a social out at no cost.”
The next confirmed event for the Marshfield Police Department and Special Olympics will be the Torch Run on June 6.
Marshfield Police Officers to Face Off Against Special Olympics Athletes
Author: News Desk
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