Trophies are great, but raising money for a good cause is what motivates northwest suburban firefighters taking part in a 12th annual softball tournament Saturday at Olympic Park in Schaumburg.
Sponsored by the Schaumburg Professional Fire Fighters Association, emergency personnel from 34 stations compete for fun and funds, raising $25,000 each year for the burn unit at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood.
The association has donated more than $250,000 to the burn unit over the years. This year, funds also will be donated to the Schaumburg Food Pantry, Special Olympics and to a program that buys Christmas presents for children of needy families.
Several silent auctions will be held during the tournament, which begins at 9 a.m. in the park on Schaumburg Road.
As for the softball players, trophies are awarded to the first-, second- and third-place teams, and “they receive bragging rights,” said Schaumburg firefighter Mike Whelan.
Raffle tickets cost $5. To purchase tickets, visit the Schaumburg fire station, 1459 W. Schaumburg Rd., or www.schaumburgfirefighters.org. Tickets also can be purchased at the tournament.