Mount Vernon Fire tops field at Heroes Softball Tournament honoring Deputy Weston Sherrer

Cheers, laughter, and community pride filled the air as the 4th Annual Heroes Softball Tournament took over the MVNU Softball Field for a day dedicated to honoring local heroes — and remembering one gone too soon.

Chaplain Jerry Scott, serving as the day’s energetic emcee, welcomed the crowd to the tournament, setting the tone for a celebration of service, sacrifice, and teamwork. In his opening remarks, Scott gave heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who made the event possible: Specialty Outdoor Services (Mike Pryjda & Wendy Brown), Kokosing, Pancho’s Tacos, MVNU Athletics, and The Woodward Opera House. Special recognition also went to MVNU Assistant Athletic Director Paul McNeal for the generous use of the university’s well-maintained softball field.

This year’s tournament carried a special tribute in memory of Deputy Weston Sherrer of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, who tragically passed in the line of duty on May 26, 2025. His service and legacy were honored in a moving opening ceremony, where all players took the field together as one. Chaplain Bob Durbin offered an inspiring invocation, followed by a powerful performance of the National Anthem by Ava Burns, which stirred heartfelt emotion throughout the crowd.

Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr then addressed attendees, joined by Deputy Sherrer’s parents and fiancée. In a moment of deep respect, Starr presented certificates of tribute to the family, expressing the community’s gratitude and condolences. Following this, Sgt. David Winkler of the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office threw the ceremonial first pitch in Weston’s honor.

The games that followed were full of energy, sportsmanship, and plenty of smiles. The tournament opened with a showdown between two squads from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, kicking things off with strong competition and a lot of team pride.

Later, the friendly rivalry between the Mount Vernon Police Department (MVPD) and the Mount Vernon Fire Department (MVFD) took center stage. The matchup came with plenty of laughs and playful trash talk — including a memorable quip from Firefighter/Paramedic Lydia Grimes, who teased Police Chief Robert "Kit" Morgan, asking, “Did the MVPD not practice this year?” The good-natured banter was a hit with the crowd, showcasing the close ties between the departments.

In the final championship game, the Mount Vernon Fire Department squared off against the Ohio State Highway Patrol — and after a high-energy battle, MVFD emerged victorious, claiming the title of 2025 Heroes Softball Champions.

While the action unfolded on the field, plenty was happening around it. A Pancho’s Tacos food truck kept bellies full, while bounce houses from Bouncin’ Butterflies provided all-day fun for the kids. A resource table hosted by Abide Academy shared helpful homeschool and co-op learning information, and Pak United was also on site to support the event.

Meanwhile, Taylor Carpenter sold tournament t-shirts, with all proceeds going to support the family of Deputy Weston Sherrer — a meaningful way for the community to give back.

As the tournament wrapped up and the Mount Vernon Fire Department was crowned champions, the spirit of unity and gratitude was unmistakable. It was a day to celebrate teamwork, to remember a hero, and to honor those who serve our community every day.

The day ended with a heartfelt announcement from Scott: “On behalf of the Mount Vernon Association of Police Chaplains, thank you all for joining us today to honor Deputy Weston Sherrer and to support our first responders. We’ll see you next year!”

Cheers rang out one last time — for our champions, our heroes, and our incredible community.