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Hockey game raises money for cancer

Local RCMP and firefighters face off in Battle of the Badges at Hope Arena on March 15
20704hopeBattleoftheBadges
Fire department goalie John Fortoloczky gets ready to make a save as members of the RCMP hockey team fight for the puck in front of the net during last year’s Battle of the Badges game at Hope Arena

Hope Fire Department will be looking to defend its title this weekend during the Battle of the Badges match at Hope Arena.

The annual game sees local firefighters face off against RCMP members from the Upper Fraser Valley Regional Detachment. The firefighters prevailed 9-8 in an overtime thriller last year, but the real winner was the Cops for Cancer initiative, which raised about $2,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society.

“This is a longstanding tradition that we look forward to every year. The players dust off their skates and come together to raise money for a great cause,” said Hope RCMP Cpl. Darren Rennie.

“The rivalry between the police and fire department grows every year with a playoff-like atmosphere. I encourage all Hope residents and their families to come out and join the excitement and fun.”

The annual event is dubbed as the Tyler Wells Cup — named after a local teen who died of cancer at the age of 13. An RCMP member from Boston Bar, Jeff Wilson, was riding in Cops for Cancer for Wells before he passed away. Wells’ uncle, Richie Wells, often plays for the firefighters’ team.

The puck drops at 2:45 p.m. on Saturday (March 15).

All proceeds will benefit the Cops for Cancer initiative.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Hope RCMP detachment or at the rink on game day.

Ticket prices remain the same as in past years: $20 for a family of four, $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and school-aged minors. Children aged five and under are free.

For more information, contact the Hope RCMP detachment at 604-869-7750.