The second annual Battle of the Badges brought together Saskatoon’s fire and police departments as the two teams hit the ice for a good cause at the Bridge City Charity Cup. Last year marked the first iteration of what is now an annual tradition for the two organizations. The charity hockey game raises funds for the Cancer Foundation of Saskatchewan, with an additional focus on breast cancer awareness. The event was created after a Saskatoon firefighter received a breast cancer diagnosis, prompting the first responders in the city to rally for the cause. “Two years ago, we had a member diagnosed with breast cancer. And this idea, you see these games in New York, in different places, big games, and it’s really popular,” said Jayden Poirier, a Saskatoon firefighter who also serves on the IFF Local 80 executive board. Poirier added that last year’s game received a lot of positive feedback, and many were excited to return to the ice at Merlis Belsher Place. “Our first was last year, it went great. This year it’s been even better. And we’re going to keep going,” Poirier said. The game also featured a silent auction and several police and fire department vehicles for members of the public to see and sit in. “A lot of people don’t get to see them very often. So the fact that they get to hop inside, take a look around and experience it, it’s a good bridge between community and first responders... It’s been a good time so far. The kids have been loving it, and that’s what it’s all about,” said Constable Mike Melnyk with the Saskatoon Police Service. Poirier shared that while the event is a friendly one intended to help a good cause, that doesn’t stop either team from giving it their all on the ice. “It’s very competitive. These are two groups of guys that have those classic A-type personalities. It’ll get a little bit feisty out there. We got really good referees that hopefully can keep control of the game. But these guys, they’re competitive, and they want to win,” Poirier said. Last year, Saskatoon police won the cup, and the fire department is certainly looking to even the score this time around. “I’m not afraid to say police did win last year. They played a really good game. So, speaking for Team Fire, the guys are excited at the little chance of retribution here,” Poirier said. But both the SFD and the SPD emphasized that regardless of the score, the Bridge City Cup is an event they take a lot of pride in, and hope to see continue for years to come. “Obviously a lot of competitive nature there. But again, all the money goes towards a great cause. And it’s a lot of fun for everyone involved,” Melnyk said.
