OUPD vs OU Housing softball charity game benefits HAVEN

Event organizers Nicole Thompson and Dave Tindall present a check for $732 to HAVEN's Beth Morrison.

By Katie Land, news editor

The real winner of the charity softball game between the Oakland University Police Department and University Housing was HAVEN. Participants have presented a check for $732 to the local women’s shelter.

Organizers Nicole Thompson, an officer of the OUPD, and Dave Tindall, assistant director of residence life for University Housing, said HAVEN was the right charity to choose. Both departments utilize the shelter’s services when necessary.

“We wanted to take an opportunity to thank HAVEN for everything they do for the campus community, and it felt great to help them because they never hesitate to assist us with whatever help we may need,” Thompson said.

The game served as a team building exercise and an opportunity for the departments to socialize in a friendly and fun way. Most of their daily interactions are in serious situations, Thompson said.

Nine police officers and 18 housing staff members made it out onto the field. The housing department was victorious, but everyone won that day, Tindall said.

“It was really nice to raise such a large amount in our first opportunity,” Tindall continued. “In these tough economic times, it is a great feeling to know that you played a small part in a helping such a great organization. I think that the players felt the same way, knowing that they were not only out in the field helping to defeat OUPD, but also contributing to such a great cause.”

Both groups hope to make this an annual event.

“I think the best part was the community policing aspect of the event,” Thompson said. “Oftentimes we associate with housing only when we are called to deal with an incident that has occurred. It was great to interact with the housing staff for a fun event like a friendly softball game.”

Tindall agreed. “It was great to get together and play. I think the relationship that housing and OUPD share is a special one and it was great to see everyone in a different capacity.”

Free hot dogs, Coney dogs and beverages for players and spectators were provided by the departments. Raffle prizes were donated from the MSU Federal Credit Union and the winner of the 50/50 raffle donated the prize money to HAVEN.