Wilmette firefighters top police department in charitable softball game to claim the President’s Cup

In any traditional softball game, losing by a wide margin would likely lead to disappointment.

But that was far from the case on Thursday evening at Wilmette’s West Park, where the village’s fire and police departments competed in a friendly softball game for bragging rights, and, more importantly, raising money for worthwhile causes.

The community-wide President’s Cup on June 12 pitted the Wilmette Police Department — who won an original President’s Cup battle 18 years ago — against the Wilmette Fire Department. The police were raising money for Special Olympics Illinois, while the fire department was supporting Illinois Burn Camp.

The fire department took the early lead, and while the police put up a valiant effort in the later innings, it wasn’t enough, as the Fire Department earned the President’s Cup after a nearly two-decade wait.

“I think it’s a great time for Team Fire, bringing the trophy back to the Fire Department,” Wilmette Fire Chief Brian Lambel said. “It’s been a long time. Since 2007, police have been holding onto this. Now it’s our turn.”

Lambel also commended the team on their victory.

“This just represents what a department we are,” he said. “Team Fire Department and doing things together all the time. I’m proud of these guys and girls.”

And while Police Chief Michael Robinson said he was disappointed in the loss, he was quick to add that the real winners weren’t competing that night.

“The Fire Department won, but the big winners are the charities,” he said. “We’re happy to take the loss, but Special Olympics can take the win.”

Robinson also congratulated both teams on their performance.

“Great job by the Fire Department, and our players played great,” he said. “We’re just glad the community could come out and rally behind this good cause.”

Though final fundraising numbers weren’t immediately available, Katie Degen, the owner of Wilmette’s Central Station Coffee and Tea, who came up with the idea for the game, said the turnout was “amazing.”

“So many people coming out, all the families from the fire department and our police department coming out and seeing the village supporting them,” she said. “It was amazing.”

Village President Senta Plunkett noted the President’s Cup tournament was great for Wilmette.

“It’s a wonderful event and the Police Department and Fire Department are taking this seriously,” she said. “They’re all in, so it’s really exciting. I just love this atmosphere.”

She later added that it was great seeing the community come out and show support for the village’s public safety departments and their charities.

“I think this is great for the community,” she said.

While there was an 18-year gap between the last President’s Cup tournament and Thursday’s, everyone seemed confident that wouldn’t happen again, and the teams were already anticipating next year’s game.

“Next year we’ll be back,” Robinson said. “And maybe we’ll practice a little bit more next time.”

Lambel agreed.

“Hopefully next year we’ll give (the Police Department) a shot at it again.”

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