ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - It was more than just a basketball tournament. It was a step towards building trust.

On Saturday afternoon, local law enforcement laced up their sneakers to face off against community members in a friendly game with a serious goal: strengthening relationships and breaking down barriers.

“So, I was sitting in my bible study one night, and I just had a vision of bridging the gap between our law enforcement and our young people. So, I came up with Unity on the Court, Badges vs. the People,” said Archbishop Q.S. Caldwell, a pastor at Greater Joy Cathedral, and mastermind behind the event.

The Albany Police Department, Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, Albany State University Police, and the Dougherty County Police Department say they hope the tournament shows civilians they are safe and protected because of the work law enforcement does each and every day.

Participants say Saturday’s tournament gave officers a chance to interact with residents more positively, one that’s different from their usual interactions.

Believe it or not, we don’t interact with the majority of the community, because the majority of the community are law-abiding citizens who just live their daily lives. So here is an opportunity where we can interact with that 66% of the population whom we just pass by every day," said Albany Police Chief Michael Persley.

Attendees tell WALB this tournament cleared up stereotypes of how they usually view police officers.

“Today was great! It’s a great feeling to be able to see the people who are protecting you and to see that they have a heart and they have a personality. It’s totally awesome,” said Adrian Perry, a student at Albany State University.

Because this tournament was such a success for both residents and law enforcement, organizers say they are already planning next year’s event.

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