Firemen vs. Deputies: Volusia softball showdown, at Jackie Robinson Ballpark

Volusia County Fire and Rescue and the Volusia Sheriff's Office combine to raise over $70,000 for the V Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Research and the Volusia Sheriff's Youth Foundation.

  • Daytona Beach
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The softball showdown of the year was a hit on July 22, at Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach. The Volusia County Sheriff's Office faced off against the Volusia County Fire and Rescue for the first charity softball game to support the V Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Research and the Volusia Sheriff's Youth Foundation. 

Fire and Rescue won the game and the bragging rights on the field by dominating 26-6, but the real victory was off the field, as the event raised more than $70,000.

“To date, the V Foundation has raised almost $500 million,” said Coach G, retired baseball coach and Master of Ceremonies. "Having this kind of crowd come out here means a lot to so many people, but mainly the kids we're trying to help.”

Fighting to cure cancer hits close to home for people on both teams.  

“Anything for charity, especially cancer and little kids,” Deputy A.J. Cole said. “I love everything about it. Bringing everybody together.”

John Moak, of Fire and Rescue, added that it’s a great opportunity for two different sides of public safety to enjoy time together for a good cause. 

“It’s camaraderie with my fellow firefighters and with the sheriffs,” Moak said. 

The entertainment on the field did not disappoint. 

“If we lose, I'm gonna be really disappointed," Chief Joe King joked. "I won't be upset, I'll just be really disappointed. I like those guys!” 

King did not end up being disappointed. 

Volusia Fire and Rescue jumped out to a huge lead in the first inning and never looked back. Over the first five innings, they built up a 20-run lead before the Spruce Creek Girls Varsity Softball team stepped in to pitch and field against both squads. 

The Spruce Creek team did so well that Sheriff Mike Chitwood decided a change was in order.  

“We’re going to have a change in the line up,” Chitwood said. "I have to swear these ladies in to become deputies tonight, and they are going to bat for us next inning.”

In the end, both teams declared the night a big success. 

"We thank you all for coming out," Chitwood said. "And we're going to do this again in 2027."

 

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