The game on Sunday is in support of Bancroft Area Kids in Need, which provides snowsuits for area kids, as well as Christmas gifts through their holiday toy drive.
According to Kids in Need secretary treasurer Sherry Torrens, even though the game is a first, there was a lot of history leading up to it.
“Before COVID, the OPP did a game with the Rockhounds, which was really fun. And so this is the first year they’ve challenged the firefighters, so we’re excited about that…there’s a lot of history there. The OPP actually started Kids in Need over 30 years ago and the firefighters are really involved, helping us all that they can as well.”
MooseFM asked deputy fire chief Matt Musclow how they were feeling heading into the game.
“We’re feeling pretty fired up, we’re feeling pretty good.” he said, “We’ve got a great group of young talent that are much better skaters than myself.” he added, with a laugh.
OPP officer Joel Devenish told MooseFM that he thinks the game is a great way to create community connection.
“They’re a great organization (KIN). They do a lot for the kids in the community. And I think it just helps bring a sense of community back. I feel like we’ve lost some of that in recent years with lockdowns and stuff like that. I feel like people are feeling a little bit more isolated still to this day. So I think just coming out and getting a good sense of community is an important thing. To just kind of bring everyone together before the holiday season.”
The puck drops at 2 p.m. Sunday at North Hastings Community Centre.
Entry for the game is a monetary donation to Kids in Need, or a toy for their holiday toy drive.
