Bravest Vs. Finest: Battle Of Badges Charity Softball Game Oct. 11

EAST HAVEN, CT — The Battle of the Badges Charity Softball Game is back.

The East Haven Police Department announced it's ready to take on the East Haven Fire Department to "defend our crown as reigning champs."

Friday, Oct. 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Deer Run School, the town's bravest — firefighters — and its finest —cops — go head-to head to see who brings home the trophy. But mostly, to have fun and raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

"Come cheer us on as we go head-to-head with some tough competition, all for a great cause," police wrote on Facebook. "Let’s keep the title where it belongs."

Take a look at the 2023 game winners:

But don't count out East Haven firefighters. Back in 2021, Fire Chief Matt Marcarelli, who had the then-champs trophy chained to a radiator, joked about cops fearing a game. Though it was at the heights of COVID-19, so they all were given a little slack.

"It’s Official! After months of chasing our law enforcement brethren to no avail because they were masterful at escape and evasion, the East Haven Police Department was officially challenged to this year's 'Battle of the Heroes Softball Championship.' They were served with a notice of challenge today at Police Headquarters. A date and time to be announced. I am told by FD personnel that the addition of the “COVID-20” around the EHPD’s midsection will likely impact performance, therefore we are hopeful that we will maintain control of the trophy which remains secured to my radiator."