London Police Triumph Over Firefighters in Charity Ice Hockey Match

The rivalry between the London Police Service (LPS) and the London Fire Department (LFD) culminated in an exciting ice hockey match on March 16, 2024, at Canada Life Place in London, Ontario. The LPS defeated the LFD 7-5 in the second annual ‘Heroes on Ice’ game, an event designed to raise funds for the Children’s Health Foundation (CHF).

In this spirited contest, LPS player Michael Rivard played a pivotal role, scoring twice and contributing significantly to the victory. The match, which attracted over 1,500 fans, featured intense gameplay, including a few altercations that injected additional excitement into the rivalry. LPS captain Evan Harrison expressed the dual purpose of the event, stating, “It’s great to win, but the goal out of all of this is just to raise money for kids who are in need.”

The camaraderie and competition on the ice highlighted the commitment of both teams to support the CHF. The event raised a total of $7,000 before the game through donations from the unions of both services. The exact amount generated from ticket sales and further contributions will be disclosed later. “First responders are just giving back to the kids that they help,” noted Jennifer Baxter, director of community relations for the CHF. She emphasized the importance of such events, stating that they enable the foundation to provide new equipment and programs that the Children’s Hospital needs but cannot afford without donor support.

Harrison also acknowledged the enthusiasm of the fans, stating that the physical play and competitive nature of the game energized both the players and the spectators. “The fans love that. A couple of scrums and a couple of fights got the boys going,” he said.

Both teams are optimistic about the event’s future. LFD captain Scott Miller remarked on the growing attendance, highlighting, “Definitely building off last year’s momentum.” He expressed hopes for an even larger turnout and increased fundraising efforts in the coming years, stating, “We hope to get the word out to the public and make it more accessible to everyone.”

The ‘Heroes on Ice’ match not only showcased the athleticism of local first responders but also underscored their commitment to community support. As the event continues to grow, both teams look forward to making a significant impact on the lives of children in need through their ongoing efforts with the CHF.