14th Annual ‘Ballin’ in Dakota County’ Charity Basketball Tournament Set for April 18 in Burnsville
Published: April 15, 2026
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA – Law enforcement officers from across Minnesota and western Wisconsin will gather this weekend for a day of competition, remembrance, and community support at the 14th Annual “Ballin’ in Dakota County” Charity Basketball Tournament.
The event is scheduled for this Saturday, April 18, at Burnsville High School. Opening ceremonies will begin at 8:00 a.m., with the first games tipping off at 8:30 a.m. The tournament is expected to conclude by approximately 6:00 p.m.
Honoring Service and Sacrifice
This year’s tournament carries added significance. For the first time, organizers will formally recognize law enforcement officers whose deaths fall under Minnesota’s updated legal definition that includes PTSD-related suicides as line-of-duty deaths.
Organizers say the change represents a meaningful step forward in addressing mental health challenges within law enforcement.
“This recognition marks an important step forward in addressing mental health in law enforcement and helping break the stigma surrounding these tragic losses,” organizers said in a statement.
The tournament will honor three individuals:
Felicia Reilly, a retired St. Paul police officer who died March 1, 2025, from injuries sustained in the line of duty following a 2010 assault
Jen Zerwas, who died by suicide on July 12, 2025
Karl Haugen, who died by suicide on August 18, 2025
Supporting Families of Fallen Officers
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Minnesota chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), which provides resources and support to the families and colleagues of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.
Since its inception, the tournament has raised more than $123,000 for the organization.
Strong Participation Across the Region
This year’s event will feature:
16 teams
169 players
Representation from 46 law enforcement agencies across Minnesota and Wisconsin
The tournament has grown into one of the region’s largest law enforcement community events, bringing together officers, families, and supporters in a setting that blends competition with camaraderie.
Community Event Open to the Public
The event is free and open to the public, though donations are encouraged. Attendees can also participate in:
A raffle
Silent auction
On-site concessions throughout the day
Organizers say the event is designed not only to raise funds but also to strengthen connections between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
More information can be found on the event’s official “Ballin in DC Annual Charity Basketball Tournament” Facebook page.
Written by: Will Wight
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