New York to host World Police & Fire Games

Thousands of FDNY firefighters, NYPD and Port Authority police officers and other first responders from around the world will compete in the World Police & Fire Games to be held this summer in New York City, on Long Island and at other venues in the tristate area.

"I think this is going to be the biggest ever, because it's the 10th anniversary of 9/11, and people want to come out and pay their respects," said FDNY firefighter Ken Deforest, 31, of Engine Company 155 in Staten Island.

"This year is all about commitment, honor and respect -- themes that make up being a first responder. This is universal and shared by all first responders," said Deforest, who is a wide receiver for the FDNY football team.

To sign up the 7,500 volunteers needed to host the games, recruiters will be on hand as the FDNY football team competes against the Los Angeles Police Department's team at the Aviator Sports and Events Center at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

The Olympic-style games, which run from Aug. 26 to Sept. 5, include events such as basketball games at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan and ice hockey games in Long Beach.

This year will mark the 14th biennial games, which started in 1985 in San Jose, Calif. More than 15,000 athletes from 70 countries are expected to participate.

Among the 65 sporting events scheduled for this year's games, those set on Long Island include an Aug. 29 fishing contest at Captree State Park in Babylon, a golf tournament at Bethpage State Park in Farmingdale Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, and a bowling tournament at the East Meadow Bowling Center Aug. 31 to Sept. 2.

Money raised will pay for the event, and any proceeds will be donated to such charities as the Police Athletic League.