Stars versus legends: Packers play softball for charity

GRAND CHUTE, Wis. (WBAY) - Current packers called the ‘stars’ took home a trophy from Fox Cities Stadium Sunday night.

They beat former players led by Donald Driver and Jordy Nelson 12-11 in the Donald Driver Charity Softball Game.

The game gives supporters of the Green and Gold a chance to get up close and personal with their favorite players, both past and present.

“It’s for the fans. I think we proved that right. It’s the community we serve and when you serve the community the community serves you back so it’s been great,” Driver said.

Fox Cities Stadium sold out with people near and far.

“I love the chance of being able to interact with the guys as they’re out there and they come by and they sign, and they give some time to the fans so it’s kinda nice to see them like that,” said Jen Caballero from Nevada. “To me I guess everything is cool because you don’t get to be that close to them on the field so I’ve met some of the old guys. Jarrett Bush is always one who is super nice. Last year I lucked out with Ahman Green who was really cool and AJ Dillon I lucked out with as well.”

“We live about seven hours away and came up because Jordy Nelson and Donald Driver are here and they’re two of my favorites,” explained Dolly Little from Illinois.

Former wide receiver Jordy Nelson said it’s always fun to come back to Northeast Wisconsin: “For some reason, I feel like I’m surprised every time I walk in here and it’s a full stadium, cars bumper-to-bumper waiting to get in. I don’t know why I’m surprised but I always am.”

Running back Aaron Jones said that it’s the fans that make the “G” special.

“You see people with your jersey or things for you to sign. It’s just a sign of love and you take the time for them and we just appreciate them coming out each and every year and making this event better and better,” Jones said.

Players are running the bases for a good cause. The game raised $250,000 for the Donald Driver Foundation this year.

“It really proves what we’ve been able to do in the community and I think everybody has built that foundation here and you can see the fans keep coming out to support us year after year,” Driver said.

Some fans said they spent more than they’d like to admit to be inside Neuroscience Group Field, but they also stressed it’s worth it for the memories, and, of course, for the charity.

The Donald Driver Foundation tackles poverty by supporting children and family with things like education, health and wellness.

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