For good causes (and maybe a little rivalry): First responders ready for Battle of the Badges

Members of Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services will take on members of the Lethbridge Police Service in a softball game at Spitz Stadium.

In the name of good causes (and maybe a little rivalry), Lethbridge’s first responders are ready to face off against each other.

This year’s Battle of the Badges will see members of Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services take on members of the Lethbridge Police Service in a softball game at Spitz Stadium next weekend.

While the fire department is hoping to extend their win streak to two, the police service holds a four-and-one record.

The fire department is playing for the Lethbridge Firefighters Charities Association, while police are playing for the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation’s south zone cardiac centre campaign.

All proceeds from the game will go to their charities.

“When we’re responding, typically, it’s for the community and residents on some of their worst days, and so for us to get out here and really celebrate our two services in more of a light-hearted, spirited, friendly competition, I think it’s really great for the community,” said David Skilling, Lethbridge Firefighters Charities Association president.

“(First responders are) the fabric of our community; they keep us safe and it’s just a celebration of what they mean to our community,” said Kevin Kvame, Lethbridge Bulls president.

The fire department will be Team Red, while the police department will be Team Blue.

People are encouraged to show support by wearing red or blue.

“If you were to ask me what I may expect from a game like this, I would tell you that I expect the fire department to show up jacked, ready to play, maybe a stacked roster,” said Sgt. Jay McMillan with the Lethbridge Police Service.

“They’re going to play to win, and they’re going to be extraordinarily well-rested.”

The Battle of the Badges is set for June 27 at Spitz Stadium.

The gates open at 5 p.m., and emergency vehicles will be there for the public to get a closer look at.

Tickets cost $15 (if you buy four, it’s $50) and can be purchased online here.

The first 250 people through the gates get a Firehouse Subs voucher good for a medium sandwich.