Synopsis: The show centers around today’s "Fun City Bowl XXX" - the 30th annual meeting of New York’s Finest (NYPD) and New York’s Bravest (FDNY) football teams, which this year had to be moved to Giants Stadium to accommodate the 35,000-plus fans expected to attend.

The special will combine game footage with feature stories on the players, their families and the heroes and victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

On Sept. 11, the FDNY football team lost 15 alumni members and seven active players - including the team’s spiritual leader, offensive tackle Durrell "Bronko" Pearsall (firefighter, Rescue 4).

"Using the football game as a backdrop, we will describe how the lives of some of ‘America's Heroes’ have changed since 9/11," said NBC Producer Mark Levy. "We have come across some amazing stories of strength, devotion, and spirit both on and off the field. Yes, both teams want to come out victorious, but this game means much more now. They are paying tribute to their ‘brothers’ by carrying on this tradition. It really is an incredible group of men."

Proceeds from the game will benefit the NYPD and FDNY Widows and Children’s funds. Pre-game ceremonies will include presentations to the families of the 22 Bravest Football Club members and the families of the 23 NYPD officers lost in the line of duty on Sept. 11.

New York’s Finest and Bravest football teams are members of the National Public Safety Football League, a union of public safety agency football teams from throughout the United States that raises funds for charity through spirited competition.

Production Info:

Airdates:
This 60-minute special debuted on NBC on Saturday, May 25, 2002 at 8:00pm ET/PT/