London Police Triumph Over Firefighters in Charity Ice Hockey Match

The annual ‘Heroes on Ice’ ice hockey game saw the London Police Service (LPS) defeat the London Fire Department (LFD) 7-5 in a spirited match on March 23, 2024, at Canada Life Place in London, Ontario. The event not only featured a competitive rivalry but also aimed to raise funds for the Children’s Health Foundation (CHF), with the final amount raised yet to be disclosed.

LPS captain Evan Harrison expressed pride in the win, highlighting the primary goal of the event. “It’s great to win, but the goal out of all of this is just to raise money for kids who are in need,” he said. This sentiment was echoed by LFD captain Scott Miller, who emphasized the event’s importance beyond competition.

A key player for the LPS, Michael Rivard, scored two goals, showcasing his offensive skills throughout the match. The atmosphere intensified with several skirmishes, which fans found exhilarating. Harrison remarked, “A couple of scrums and a couple of fights got the boys going. Those intense plays get the boys firing.”

Increased Participation and Community Impact

This year’s event saw a significant increase in attendance, with over 1,500 fans coming out to support the cause, compared to last year’s inaugural event. Miller noted the growth, saying, “Definitely building off last year’s momentum. Hopefully next year we can keep snowballing it and make it bigger.”

Before the match, both the LPS and LFD unions presented cheques totaling $7,000 to the CHF. This contribution is part of a broader effort by first responders to support the children they assist in emergency situations. Jennifer Baxter, director of community relations for CHF, highlighted the tangible benefits of such events. “Events like this mean new equipment, new programs, and many new things that the Children’s Hospital can’t have without donors like this,” she explained.

The outcome of the match added a competitive edge to the charitable initiative, but the overarching aim remained clear: to improve the lives of children in need. As first responders, both teams understand the importance of the funds raised and the impact they can have on young lives in the community.

As excitement builds for next year’s event, the organizers hope to further increase awareness and participation in this charitable endeavor. The community’s support plays a vital role in ensuring that the Children’s Health Foundation can continue its mission to assist children facing health challenges. The ‘Heroes on Ice’ game has become a testament to the dedication of local first responders and their commitment to giving back.