Portland First Responders Coming Together For Memorial Soccer Game
PORTLAND, OR – The 9th annual 9/11 Rose City United Memorial Match between Portland Police and Firefighters kicks off tonight with gates opening at 6pm and the match at 7 from Providence Park.
Police sergeant Kevin Allen is one of more than two dozen first responders taking the field and says the gathering is community-driven.
“It’s a really good opportunity to bring (everyone) together and celebrate.”
Captain Jake Brown represents Team Fire.
“To have a good time, food and toys for the charity donations, but also to continue on the important stories that help shape us as a society,” Brown said.
But Allen also says the rivalry is healthy… and comes with braggin’ rights.
“We’re a lot like siblings,” Allen said. “We love each other. We work together. We care about each other.”
“But, we also don’t get along all the time,” Allen continued. “We have a lot of competitive nature.”
Brown says it’s important to pay tribute to the first responders who lost their lives 25 years ago today.
“Everybody is remembering that we’re out there for a family event, raising money for awesome organizations and remembering our fallen coworkers,” Brown said.
After a five-year hiatus, Portland Police took the 2024 match win, while the two organizations tied last year.
You can get into the match for free with a donation of a pre-wrapped toy or non-perishable food item. Donations benefit the Sunshine Division and Toy & Joy Makers.