For the 34th year, the Warwick Turkey Trot softball tournament took place at City Park to gather canned goods for the West Bay Community Action Food Pantry leading up to Thanksgiving. Players traveled from all over the state to participate in the feel-good event.

Once again, the local softball players came through, donating just shy of 2,300 pounds of food which was among the best turnouts the event has had in its three-plus decades.

This season was also one of the largest events that it has enjoyed, hosting 24 teams in the men’s tournament then 16 teams in the co-ed competition. It was the fourth season that there has been a co-ed tournament.

The Killas took home first place in the men’s tournament and recently finished second in the world championships. Warwick Mayor Frank Picozzi tossed the first pitch.

The event continued to be headed by Bob Berard, who has been the primary organizer since the first year. He was a member of the team that won the first three seasons. Berard is also the head of RI Freedom Softball and was the state commissioner for 10 years.

Berard was excited to bring the tournament back for another fall and to be able to give back to the community. He credited the generosity and commitment from the players in making the event successful for another go-round.

“I’m proud of the guys every year. I ask for the food and they come through. I ask for 20 cans per team, and each guy probably brings about 20. It’s a family tradition; it’s like football on Thanksgiving. We’re very proud of what it’s become,” said Berard.