Try to catch ’em slidin’ dirty!
The Cyclones hosted the annual NYPD Appreciation Night on July 17 at MCU Park on Coney Island. As part of the evening, the Cyclones hosted a charity softball game between members of New York’s Finest and Fox 5’s morning show Good Day New York to raise money for the family of fallen Police Officer Miosotis Familia.
“We got to meet the Familia family on Good Day New York, so we just had to make whatever little contribution we can to make their day a little brighter,” said Good Day New York co-anchor Rosanna Scotto.
Scotto captained Good Day New York’s team, which included co-anchor Greg Kelly — son of former police commissioner Ray Kelly — and several members off the cast, including Mike Woods, Ines Rosales, Duke Castiglione, Teresa Pirilo, and Baruch Shemtov.
New York Mets’ pitching legend John Franco also participated, and The Sopranos actor Tony Cirico came out to cheer on Team Scotto.
Shemtov hadn’t played softball since middle school, but he was excited to play — particularly in a way that brings people together.
“So often people get riled up about sports, and to be able to play sports in a way that actually unifies us, regardless of who wins, is a very special thing. Especially here in New York,” said Shemtov. “We’re thrilled to be here to support the NYPD.”
Team Scotto beat New York’s Finest 4–3 in the hour-long game, but Kelly took more pleasure in participating in a good cause than winning the game — in part because he knew the police team was holding back.
“So much fun, and such a privilege to play in Coney Island,” Kelly said. “The cops were such gentlemen. I think they could have creamed us, but they were easy on us. To contribute in some small way to the family of Officer Familia was again, a privilege.
