Tyler First Responders to Host 'Battle of the Badges' Softball Tournament

The event will raise funds for the Smith County advocacy center during Child Abuse Awareness Month.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:09am

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A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring repeated images of a softball, baseball bat, and glove in a vibrant, pop art style, conceptually representing the community-focused sports event.The 'Battle of the Badges' softball tournament will bring together Tyler's first responders to raise funds and awareness for child abuse survivors.Tyler Today

The Smith County advocacy center is hosting its first-ever 'Battle of the Badges' softball tournament on Saturday, April 25 at Faulkner Park in Tyler, Texas. The event will feature a home run derby and softball tournament between local first responders, with proceeds going to support child abuse survivors. In addition to the sports activities, the event will also include food trucks, raffle items, and artwork created by children to help raise awareness and funds.

Why it matters

Child abuse is a serious issue that affects communities across the country. Events like the 'Battle of the Badges' help raise awareness and support for local advocacy centers that provide critical services to survivors. By bringing together first responders and the community, the tournament aims to show solidarity and raise funds for an important cause.

The details

The 'Battle of the Badges' event will kick off at 10:30 a.m. with tailgating, followed by a home run derby contest at 12:30 p.m. and the start of the softball tournament at 2:00 p.m. Moss Floral will be selling artwork created by children to support child abuse survivors, and there will also be food trucks, raffle items, and activities for kids throughout the day. The event is scheduled to wrap up around 5:00 p.m.

  • The 'Battle of the Badges' event will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026.
  • The festivities will begin at 10:30 a.m. and wrap up around 5:00 p.m.

The players

Smith County advocacy center

The local organization hosting the 'Battle of the Badges' event to raise funds and awareness for child abuse survivors.

Moss Floral

The local business that will be selling artwork created by children to support the advocacy center's efforts.

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What’s next

The Smith County advocacy center is encouraging all community members to attend the 'Battle of the Badges' event on April 25 to show their support for child abuse survivors and the important work of the organization.

The takeaway

Events like the 'Battle of the Badges' softball tournament are crucial for raising awareness and funds to support local advocacy centers that provide vital services to child abuse survivors. By bringing together first responders and the community, the tournament aims to show solidarity and make a meaningful impact on an issue that affects families across the country.