World POLICE AND FIRE GAMES

HELP BUTTONS PLAY IN THESE PRESTIGIOUS GAMES

World Police and Fire Games

In early July 2025, first responders and law enforcement officers from across the globe will gather in Birmingham, AL to compete in the World Police and Fire Games, an international competition celebrating strength, service, and solidarity. Among the competitors is one of CNY Rugby’s own: Buttons, a member of USA Unified Command. She plays for Uticuse Rugby, leads the Syracuse Silver Hawks High School Rugby Team as the Head Coach, and holds a member-at-large on the CNY Rugby Board.

Buttons is also a passionate volunteer firefighter and EMT. When she unfortunately tore her second acl (opposite knee) in April 2023, she made the life-changing decision to join her local Fire Department.  Being a firefighter had been one of her goals, but she didn’t know how the time commitment would work with rugby.  A recruitment event held the same week as her injury inspired her to learn more about her department.  She applied on the spot, and despite being physically injured, there was a lot that she could learn until she was fully recovered.  During this time, she also became a certified EMT-B in NYS.  Once cleared for full physical activity a year later, she enthusiastically joined Firefighter Bootcamp to gain the skills necessary to become an interior firefighter. In addition to answering calls, she also serves as the Marketing Chair and has led various projects to help recruitment efforts, including launching a new website, creating a quarterly email newsletter, and coordinating public events. In recognition of her contributions, she received the 2024 Board of Directors Award for outstanding service.

Now that she has completed her initial firefighter training, Buttons has returned to the pitch with renewed energy, competing in recent tournaments and embracing her role as a veteran “old girl” with nearly two decades of rugby experience.  Even though both are time consuming, she continues to find ways to balance her dual passions of rugby and emergency services.

Why The Team Needs Your Support

USA Unified Command is a brand-new team built from the ground up, with no league or national funding. Each player is covering their own expenses to represent their department and country to have the incredible opportunity to blend their passion for rugby with their dedication to public service.

Estimated Cost for Each Player

• Tournament Registration: $140

• Lodging: $500

• Uniforms and Gear: $200

• Meals and Nutrition: $200

• Travel (varies by distance): $100-600

How You Can Help

Every donation — large or small — brings the team one step closer to the Games. Support the journey by contributing to the team’s GoFundMe or purchasing delicious coffee through our fundraising partner (now open through the end of June).

Thank you for helping us champion community, commitment, and camaraderie to the world stage!