University Of Tulsa Honors First Responders For 918 Day Football Game

The University of Tulsa celebrates First Responders as part of 918 Day.

During TU's game against Jacksonville State, athletes and fans honored local firefighters, law enforcement and other emergency workers.

Football season is an exciting time for fans.

But on Saturday, law enforcement can watch the game while wearing their own uniforms as part of First Responders Night.

Captain Mike Eckert with TPD says they love days like these because it makes them feel appreciated for the hard work they do.

"When we have a day like this where they have the opportunity to meet the public and hopefully have that public come up and shake our hands and thank us for the job that we do, It means a lot," Eckert said.

In tonight's game, fans had the option to donate to either the Tulsa Fire or police department when they bought their ticket.

Jason Malay with TU Athletics says bringing this fundraiser back on a gameday was overdue.

"There were still a lot of restrictions going on so we wanted to make sure we get everybody involved this year and get them back out," Malay said. "It's really great to be doing it again...really excited about it and love the support from the community."

TPD also showed off their gear and met fans right before kickoff started.

Eckert says these interactions with the community are crucial in building that first responder and civilian bond.

"You know we have ups and downs with the relationship that law enforcement has with the public," Eckert said. "I think it's important that the people that we serve know that we come to work every day to serve them."

Eckert says he's thankful he is serving a community that cares so deeply about its first responders.

"There should not be any adversarial feeling between the two and In Tulsa, I really don't feel like we have that," Eckert said

The proceeds will be going to either the Tulsa Firefighters Benevolent Fund or the Tulsa Police Foundation.