This Friendly Rivalry Spans the River

Long-time friends—who often battle dangerous blazes together—became rivals this past weekend.

South Nyack's Orangetown Fire Company went head to head with Tarrytown's Riverside Hose Company Sunday in an annual softball match.

The two volunteer departments have been friends for over sixty years—before the Tappan Zee Bridge was even built. And they keep their friendship alive by playing softball and hockey games where families and friends can commiserate and cheer on their local fire departments.

"The games allow the two departments to talk about old memories and rekindle friendships," said Riverside Hose Chief Patrick Derivan, Sr. 

An ex-Chief of the Nyack Fire Department agreed about the long-standing history between the companies.

"When I was a young boy, I remember my dad bringing my family and I to games in Tarrytown," he recalled. "And now, years later, I am bringing my family here."

Tom O'Shea—a current member of the Orangetown Fire Company —noted the bonds between the companies are strengthened through the tandem firefighting.

"We have been there for them, and they have been there for us," he said. "We are trying to create a personal bond for all the volunteers so everyone has a chance to get to know each other."

Many members of both volunteer companies began their careers protecting local citizens in high school, and have continued their service in other public sector areas such as law enforcement and municipal work.

This year, Nyack won the game 14-12. And immediately afterward, the two departments went from rivals to friends to enjoy a cook-out at Riverside Hose Company's Franklin Street fire house. 

"It does not matter who wins or loses; we are all friends after the game ends," Derivan said.