Police and Firefighters square off for charity

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) -- Members of the Fort Wayne Police Department and Fire Department settled a friendly rivalry on the soccer field Sunday, all while raising money for a good cause.

The annual Fire vs. Police Benefit Soccer Match took place at the Fort Wayne Sport Club Sunday afternoon.

This year, the teams were playing to raise money for two members of the fire department, one of whom is battling cancer, and the other is facing a large medical procedure.

"Public safety as a whole, we really kind of have that kindred brotherhood and sisterhood in the community," said Chief Amy Biggs of the Fort Wayne Fire Department. "It's something that we do pull together and try to, not look at ourselves always, a lot of times we're giving back to other charitable events, but it's an opportunity to have a little competitive spirit and comraderie go together."

Along with funds raised at an auction Saturday night, they hope to raise several thousand dollars.

But Chief Biggs added that members of both departments also enjoy embracing that competitive spirit.

"Most people on the team will be able to tell you who won last year and give a little bit of sarcastic rivalry to see who's going to win this year," said Biggs. "There's always a little banter that goes back and forth, it's always casual and in good spirit."

And after pulling out the win last year, the Fire Department was able to defend their title of Benefit Match Champions, winning Sunday 2-1.