Heroes Cup Brings Community Together for an Unforgettable Night at the Ballpark
One game. One community. Countless moments that mattered.
August 5, 2026
The crack of the bat. Fireworks lighting up the Nashua sky. Athletes proudly handing out their own trading cards. Friends cheering from the stands. Last Friday night, Holman Stadium was filled with moments that reminded everyone why Heroes Cup is about so much more than baseball.
Hosted by the Nashua Silver Knights, the 2026 Heroes Cup once again brought together law enforcement, firefighters, Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and fans for an evening celebrating friendship, inclusion, and the heroes who make our communities stronger.
When the final out was recorded, Team Police claimed this year’s Heroes Cup trophy with a 7-5 victory over Team Fire. While Team Fire outhit Team Police 11-3, the scoreboard told a different story as Team Police capitalized on key opportunities to earn the win. But as always, the biggest victories came long before the final inning.
Throughout the evening, 40+ Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes shared the spotlight with the first responders who had spent months fundraising alongside them. Fans were greeted by athletes handing out their trading cards, sharing smiles, and welcoming everyone who came through the gates. Around every corner were conversations, high-fives, and new friendships that embody what Heroes Cup is all about.
The evening began with Special Olympics New Hampshire athlete Zoya Tavallai throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, sponsored by Friendly Beaver Campground, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of baseball, friendship, and community.
The night’s opening ceremonies celebrated another remarkable accomplishment for our movement as Team New Hampshire returned home from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Athletes, Unified partners, coaches, and delegation leadership gathered on the field to be recognized for an incredible week of competition, perseverance, and pride while fans celebrated their achievements.
Team NH athletes Alicia Chapman and David Sylvester shared heartfelt reflections on what representing New Hampshire at the USA Games meant to them, reminding everyone in attendance that the opportunities created through Special Olympics extend far beyond the playing field.
Adding to the excitement, athlete Ben Langlois joined Unified partner Marc Boyd in the announcer’s booth, bringing energy, humor, and enthusiasm to the evening’s festivities. Before the first pitch, eight-time world record holder Al St. Louis delivered a powerful performance of the National Anthem that set the tone for an unforgettable night.
After Team Police secured their 7-5 victory, Special Olympics New Hampshire athlete James Masterson had the honor of presenting the Heroes Cup trophy to the champions, bringing the evening to a fitting close with athletes at the center of the celebration.
As darkness settled over Holman Stadium, a spectacular fireworks show provided a fitting finale to a night built around community, celebration, and inclusion.
Heroes Cup would not be possible without the incredible generosity of the individuals, businesses, and organizations who believe in creating opportunities for Special Olympics New Hampshire athletes.
A special thank you to the Jane W. Nuhn Charitable Trust for its generous matching donation supporting Team Fire’s fundraising efforts.
We are also deeply grateful to our event sponsors:
- Gold Medal Sponsors: Friendly Beaver Campground, sponsor of the ceremonial first pitch, and NH Sportsplex
- Silver Medal Sponsors: Racine Realty and Salem Firefighters Relief Association
- Bronze Medal Sponsors: American Legion Post 100 Pelham, Auburn Firefighters Association, and Mentis Sciences Inc.
Their support, alongside the dedication of every player, athlete, volunteer, donor, and fan, helped make this year’s Heroes Cup another unforgettable success.
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the ballpark, cheered from the stands, volunteered behind the scenes, or supported one of our players or athletes through fundraising. Because of you, Heroes Cup continues to demonstrate that when first responders and Special Olympics athletes come together, they create something far greater than a baseball game.
We’ll see you at the ballpark next year!