Page 50 - November 2020

THE CHAMPS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 49
“This group of guys will never allow you to get down on your- self. [They’re] always making you feel like the next play will be a big play,” said Matthews, who also works in the 025. “I love having those moments when the team needs a big hit and I get the chance to get the team over the hill to give us a chance to win. There’s no better feeling [than] having the confidence of the guys before me in the lineup to get on base. It always makes the job easier.”
Macias added about Matthews, “He just knows how to hit — pure talent.”
The bonding and sense of brotherhood among the 28 play- er-officers who made the trip to Dallas undoubtedly contribut- ed to the team’s success. But Macias credited a surprise appear- ance by one of the Finest’s own — an officer recently injured in an on-duty shooting — for giving the team a special boost. Other teams also showed their appreciation for the officer, which lifted the spirits of everyone, according to Macias.
“It was like a breath of fresh air to have that kind of camara- derie,” he said.
Finest players also relished the opportunity to break away, play some ball and feel a bit of normalcy in what has been a tumultuous year.
“The trip to Dallas was definitely something that all of us on the Finest needed, especially with how policing is being reflect- ed around the country,” LaFlamme shared. “The ability to step away from the job, even for a short while, and go to Texas to play a sport we all love definitely gave a recharge we all needed.”
Matthews agreed, saying the opportunity for players to get their minds off work and focus on baseball for a few days was a great feeling. The focus helped galvanize the team into cham- pions.
“What stood out was the determination and fight we had
when our backs were against the wall. As a team, we believed and knew if we keep playing our game, we will come up with that big hit or play. I believe those close games made us closer on and off the field,” Matthews said.
LaFlamme added that the unselfish approach that drove the team to victory is reflective of the teamwork officers use on the streets every day.
When Macias stepped into his role as manager, he commit- ted the team first and foremost to its charity work, but he also vowed to have the Finest become recognized among the top- tier police and fire teams.
“I wanted to be respected. I wanted to be the best,” he said.
With a 2018 national title and this year’s World Series champi- onship on the résumé, the “Big Blue Train” has its sights set on high-level U.S. and international competitions in 2021. Macias recognizes that the bar continues to be raised for the Finest as it builds a legacy of winning that he knows will stick with the team long after he steps away.
For Matthews, a second-year player, he sees that big picture already.
“Playing for this team and winning the championship made it that much more special, knowing that we are playing for a greater cause and making our city proud,” he said.
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50 CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ NOVEMBER 2020