APPLETON — Former Packers receiver Donald Driver drew a sellout crowd of more than 9,000 fans Sunday for his annual charity softball game.

"I was successful as I was because of the fans," said Driver, who took over the game after the Packers traded Brett Favre. "This has always been such as special place because of the way the fans have shown me love and respect."

Driver said he would host the charity softball game again next year, along with many other charity functions throughout Wisconsin.

"I'm going to be back as often as possible," said Driver, who boosted his national prominence in 2012 when he won "Dancing with the Stars." ''Green Bay will be my second home and I am going to be around and be part of this community and continue to interact with the fans."

The defense won the game 24-20. Rookie linebacker Nate Palmer was selected the most valuable player after hitting a home run and finishing with two doubles.