The game showcased the players’ skills and sportsmanship, fostering a sense of community between the team and the officers.

The Chautauqua Lakers participated in an exhibition softball game at Gerry Park. This event featured police officers from the Jamestown Police Department, deputies from the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department, and cadets from the Jamestown Community College Sheriff’s Academy.

“We had so much fun,” said Laker’s ballplayer Brendon Brightman, a senior at Jamestown High School. “We got to see Officer Magio today, and I went four-for-four against him when he pitched.

Officer Jeremy Maggio serves as the School Resource Officer for Jamestown High School and is a member of the Jamestown Police Department. He received some playful jeers from the Lakers’ players, who recognized him from school during his many trips to the pitching mound during the game.

The Chautauqua Lakers, a Special Olympics softball team, played against law enforcement officers from the Jamestown Police Department, the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department, and cadets from the Sheriff’s Police Academy. The game took place at Gerry Park on Wednesday night.

Hope Hannold, a soon-to-be junior at JHS and supporter of the Lakers, also heckled Maggio during his time pitching, by stating, “Pitcher, you stink,” and “Maggio, you better be careful, don’t hit my friends again.”

The remark made earlier alluded to Maggio’s unsettling habit during his time on the mound, where he had a tendency to throw pitches that beaned some of the Lakers during the game – though a good laugh was had by all.

“It was an honor to partake in the softball game and to partner with the Special Olympics for events like this,” said JPD Sgt. Dan Overend. “The game was a blast. I hope that we (the officers) gave the Chautauqua Lakers a little challenge. We all had a great time together and I can’t wait to do this again next year. Best wishes for the Lakers in their upcoming softball tournament.”