LEXINGTON, Va., March 15, 2024—All law enforcement officers know that scenarios can change at any moment, developments must be anticipated, quick decisions must be made, and one must remain alert and ready to react instantly. Virginia Military Institute police officer Zachary Higgins not only provides that knowledge and skillset to the post police department, but he also brings it to his recreational softball team. 

Higgins, who plays shortstop, was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the World Softball Tournament in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina recently. His team, sponsored by RiKo’s Minnows and TG2 Landscaping, is part of the Freedom Sports Association, which includes six leagues, spanning a multiple state region from Florida to Ohio. Higgins’ team won the tournament and were presented with championship rings. 

According to Higgins, the team rarely practices together since its members live as far away as Maryland and North Carolina. Instead, players are encouraged to practice on their own. “I practice with a couple buddies, and my brother Cole, who is also a member of the team, at Brewbaker Field in Lexington,” he said.

His team went undefeated until the tournament where they lost an early game in the series, but went on to win the deciding game 21-16, clinching the championship. Cole, who plays centerfield shared the MVP with him. “Actually, they chose four MVPs altogether, two from each of the final teams. It was nice to share the experience with my brother. We had a great week and hit the ball well. It felt good,” Higgins shared.

Higgins grew up in Buena Vista, where he played baseball for Parry McCluer High School. He continued to play for his college, Davis & Elkins College in Elkins, West Virginia. 

VMI police chief Michael Marshall is proud of Higgins’ accomplishment.  “Zach has been working for us for nearly two years and is fully committed to VMI. He has been offered jobs from other police departments, but he turned them down because of his love for VMI. He is a true champion on the playing field and as a police officer,” said Marshall. 

Marianne Hause
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE