On July 31, 2023, the Sussex County Miners, a member team of the Frontier League of Professional Baseball, hosted the Battle of the Badges softball charity game at Skyland Stadium on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 4:00 P.M. Troopers from both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania State Police participated to raise money and enjoy a night full of family fun. The charity softball game was immediately followed by a Miners versus Jackals baseball game at 7:05 P.M., with one ticket valid for both games.
All proceeds from the Battle of the Badges game went to 11-year-old Cash Klem and the families of Pennsylvania State Troopers Jacques F. Rougeau Jr. and Lt. James A. Wagner. Klem, of Stillworth, NJ, suffers from Cerebellar Ataxia and is currently in need of a new semi-powered wheelchair. Rougeau Jr., 29, was shot and killed in the line of duty on June 17, 2023. Lt. Wagner was shot and critically injured on the same day but is currently in recovery and has been given a hero’s discharge. The softball game was held as an opportunity to give back to their families in need.
As part of the event, the Miners signed the first-ever active duty NJ State Trooper, Detective Miguel Hidalgo, to a one-day professional contract. Hidalgo donated his salary from the game towards Cash Klem’s new wheelchair. Based on his performance, there were additional incentives for donations such as walks and stolen bases, such as: $50 for runs scored and $100 for singles, $200 for doubles, $300 for triples, and $400 for any home runs.
The charity softball game also featured an NJ colonel throwing out the first pitch along with honor guards, mascots, bagpipe bands, motorcycle units, and a helicopter flyover. “We’re proud and honored to support those who put their lives on the line for all of us – day in and day out,” said Vincent Sangemino, General Manager of The Sussex County Miners. “Softball and baseball are team sports, just like community-building is a team sport. We all need to do our part to strengthen and support our communities.”
Tickets for the event were available for $20-$22 each and were valid for both the 4:00 P.M. softball game and the 7:05 P.M. Miners baseball game. The event also had $1 beverages and raffles available. Families were encouraged to attend for a fun night of baseball and softball.
