Federal Way police officers and South King Fire and Rescue firefighters faced off in a game of basketball Feb. 6 at Decatur High School. The event was sponsored by the Federal Way Lions Club to celebrate Helen Keller Day. Proceeds of the event will benefit adults and children with sight and hearing needs in the community.

The police defeated the firefighters 52-44. The event also raised $3,266 — more than twice the amount raised last year, said organizer and Lions Club member Mike Persha.

“I was happy with the way it ran and the money it raised and the people who came,” he said. “We served 280 hot dogs, and last year we served 130, so that tells you something.”

There was more at stake than just the trophy. The loss for SKFR means buying doughnuts for the police officers.

Before the game

The police officers and firefighters have been “battling” it out for years. In 2001 and again in 2006, both teams competed in the Guns and Hoses Softball Challenge. “The Guns and Hoses Softball Challenge trophy is proudly displayed in the police department and we look forward to adding another to our collection,” said Brian Wilson, police chief at the time.

The police department is coming off a loss to the fire department at the Farmer’s Market Chili Cook-Off, but has high hopes after a win in the Lions basketball game last year. The fire department, on the other hand, has its eye on the prize.

“We still have plenty of momentum from the win at the Farmer’s Market. We are taking the trophy this year,” said Chief Al Church.