Originally a softball game between members of the Oakdale Police Department and the Oakdale Fire Department, the competition has expanded and has become known as the “Battle of the Badges” tournament. It is an annual event and is a primary fundraiser for OBSA, Oakdale Baseball & Softball Association.

“A number of other ‘badges’ want in; so, it has turned into a tournament,” said Paul Westberg, OBSA League Ambassador. “It’s usually a great turnout.”

In addition to OPD and the local firefighters, this year’s event – set for Sunday, May 3 at the TL Davis Sports Complex, will also feature the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department, Sonora CHP and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

The tournament is open to spectators, who are invited to join in for the fun of the games, food, drinks, sno cones, prize drawings, face painting, music, a 50/50 raffle and more.

The event is scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. – or until the championship game is over.

Pool play begins at 9 a.m., with additional games at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.; the bracket play games start at 12:30 p.m. with the championship game scheduled for a 2:30 p.m. start. Pool 1 teams are the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department, Oakdale Police Department and Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office; Pool 2 features Modesto Fire Department, Sonora CHP and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

This event is a fundraiser, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting OBSA scholarships for future players and supporting league needs for local youth athletes, noted OBSA officials. Every dollar raised helps give kids the opportunity to play ball and be part of something special.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for kids and free admission for kids in their uniforms.

“Come support our community heroes, cheer on the teams, and help us invest in the future of Oakdale youth sports,” urge OBSA officials. “Let’s make this an amazing day for our kids and our town.”