Skates are sharpened and bragging rights are back during this years Todd Gustavson Memorial Battle of the Badges. Lloydminster RCMP and Lloydminster Fire Rescue prepare to fight it out in the annual competition in just a couple of weeks.
Puck drops at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 7, at Cenovus Energy Hub, marking the first time the annual event will be held at the community’s newest venue.
Entry is by donation. Residents can give cash at the door or bring non-perishable food items.
Cash donations from this year’s game will support Inclusion Lloydminster, which advocates for and assists individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Food collected at the door ahead of the battle, will go to The Olive Tree and The Salvation Army Lloydminster, two organizations that provide food and community support programs to local families.
Last year’s matchup raised $4,283 in cash for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster and collected about 2,903 kilograms of food for local agencies. The game ended with a 7 – 5 RCMP win and a year of friendly bragging rights.
It’s a Battle for bragging rights
Mayor Gerald Aalbers said the event continues to show what Lloydminster does best.
“Battle of the Badges is more than an afternoon of hockey. It is a great example of how our community comes together to have fun while supporting local organizations,” said Aalbers.
“The friendly rivalry on the ice helps create real impact off the ice for programs that matter to our community. It is shaping up to be another great afternoon at the rink!”
Doors open prior to puck drop, and organizers are encouraging residents to fill the stands and support the cause.
For players, it is one game.
For the community, it is another chance to turn a little rivalry into real help for neighbours who need it most.
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