Driver hosts charity softball game

GRAND CHUTE - Donald Driver and his teammates hit the field at Fox Cities Stadium Sunday for the wide receiver's fifth celebrity softball game.

“We just love being here,” said Ericka Huffman of Beloit. “We loved watching him on "Dancing with the Stars" this year."

Driver's dancing partner, Peta Murgatroyd was planning to be in the Green Bay area this weekend for a dancing event. So it worked out well for her to throw out the first pitch.

“It's so good to be here, and see everybody, and see all the support we had throughout the 15 weeks we were on the show,” said Murgatroyd.

T-shirts, hats and other items celebrating Driver and Murgatroyd’s dancing accolades were being sold at the game.

“Everyone loves them,” said Heather Lazar, a vendor. “I mean they've been buying them for gifts, themselves, so it's not only Packers fans, it's "Dancing with the Stars" fans too."

“When people show you the love and support you have to be willing to give it back,” said Driver.

Driver's dancing fame also equals added support to the softball game's benefactor, the Donald Driver Foundation.

“These type of events raise so much money that we're able to help homeless families and give kids scholarships, as well as feed other kids that are on federal government,” said Driver.

Driver expected the game to raise more than $200,000 for his foundation. It's a tradition he hopes to continue beyond his football career.

“When I leave here, I want to continue to have my stamp here,” said Driver. “I think some players leave and they never come back. I've always wanted to to come back and I'll continue to come back.”

The game was a sellout. Driver said it is the second time the game has sold out.