Despite thunderheads rolling in and inevitable rainfall, fans from all around the area swarmed Haverhill Stadium to see members of their favorite football team in action against the Haverhill Police Patrolman's Union in a game of flag football on Friday, June 27, at 7 p.m.
All proceeds went to the patrolman's union. Tickets were $10 each and souvenirs were available for fans to get free autographs after the game.
"This event is a lot of fun. We always have a good time doing it and everyone really enjoys themselves. I'm glad it's only flag football, otherwise you wouldn't see me out here," said Officer Ozzie Hardy, who has participated in the fundraiser for the past seven years.
Officer Dan Trocki joined the patrolman's lineup for the first time this year.
"The whole thing is pretty exciting. This is my first year playing and we have three Super Bowl champions, so it'll be interesting," Trocki said.
The Patriots Celebrity team wasted no time showing off their skills, ending the first half 28-6. The Patrolman's Union scored a touchdown in the last minute of the half thanks to their special team — a few dozen kids.
"I chose to do this because I like being a part of the community and especially doing these kinds of things with the kids. I'll continue to do it every chance I get," said Shawn Crable, a rookie and third-round draft pick from Michigan.
Although the Patrolman's Union put up a fight and came back with a few touchdowns of their own, the game came to an end with the Patriots ahead, 57-20. Even though victory was on their side, the Patriots players said they're just happy to help raise money for a good cause.
"I've been doing this since my rookie year. We help raise money for firefighters and police so it's a great cause. We do it all over the region," said Max Lane, a former offensive linesman who played in Super Bowl XXXI.
The Police Patrolman's Union uses the proceeds to provide a scholarship to a Haverhill High graduate.
Organizers do not yet know how much was raised.
Patriots Celebrity Team
Scott Zolak: This 6-foot-5 Patriots quarterback was a nine-year NFL veteran. He is currently working as a television football analyst for WEEI radio.
Max Lane: This 6-foot-6 offensive tackle was a sixth-round pick in 1994. He emerged as a starter in 1995 and 1996, earning the praise of the media, fans and teammates for his outstanding play on New England's offensive line.
Robert Perryman: This bruising running back played for the New England Patriots from 1987 through 1989. In six seasons in the NFL, he started in more than 100 games.
Jim Bowman: This 6-foot-2 former Patriots defensive back enjoyed five seasons in New England from 1985-1990. He helped the Patriots to the AFC Championship game by recovering a fumble in the end zone against the Raiders in a 27-20 win in 1985.
Peter Brock: This 6-foot-5 center enjoyed a 12-year career for the Patriots, 10 as a starter. In his day he was known as one of the best linemen around.
Jerod Mayo: This 6-foot-1 linebacker was the team's No. 1 draft pick this year, from Tennessee.
Shawn Crable: This 6-foot-5 linebacker was a 2008 third-round draft pick from Michigan.
Matthew Slater: This 6-foot kick returner and wide receiver was the fifth-round draft pick from UCLA.
Ray Ventrone: This 5-foot-10 defensive back signed with the Patriots in April 2005 and is a tackle.
Haverhill Police Patrolman's Union All-Stars line-up
55 Pearl
46 Connolly
60 E. MacKinnon
54 Mears
61 D. MacKinnon
34 Sullivan
43 Otis
36 Tracy
3 Portalla
9 Spero
41 Pagliuca
82 Trocki
29 Brown
51 Cox
8 Powell
5 Coop
69 Benedetti
35 Welch
49 Dawkins
15 Sarfde
50 Arriaga
25 Miller
98 Antz
01 Jojo
00 Wendy
