Special Olympians take on first responders in local 'Heroes Game'

MONTICELLO , Ill. (WAND) — Piatt County first responders met their match in a basketball game against the Piatt County Golden Eagles Special Olympics basketball team Thursday night.

This was the second year the teams competed in a community game to raise money for local first responders and the Golden Eagles.

"The [firefighters] are always willing to come out and play. They love to play with fire, but I think they like to play in the gym as well," said Ellen Lynch of the Piatt County Firefighters Association.

Tony Kirkman, coach of the Piatt County Golden Eagles, told WAND News that the team appreciates the local involvement.

"This is one of the best examples of why this is a great community we live in. It comes out to support athletes," said Kirkman.