For the second year in a row the North Bay Police and the North Bay Fire Department will face off for the inaugural Battle of the Badges game at Boart Longyear Memorial Gardens on Saturday, March 21.
All proceeds from this year's event will support the North Bay Foodbank and Chat4Chad First Responder Fund.
Doors open at 6 p.m. and the puck drop is set for 7 p.m.
"Free March break fun for the whole family! Entry to the game is a non-perishable food item or monetary donation in support of the North Bay Food Bank," organizers stated in a release.
The guest coaches will be members of the North Bay Battalion.
There will be in-game giveaways from Sparky, Radar, and Sarge,
The event will have a hockey-oriented silent auction including items like a signed Nikita Kucherov All-Star jersey, North Bay Battalion signed merchandise, Sarnia Sting signed merchandise, AHL signed merchandise, and much more.
"Debbie Marson from the food bank is hosting a friendly battle of the fans at the doors to see who can raise the most food between Police and Fire," organizers stated.
"This game is going to be a competitive battle between two members of the emergency services family. The cops have added scoring depth this year as they look to fill the net, but they will need to solve a nearly perfect wizard in net for the FD in Matt Barr.
"This is such a fun event for us and the fans. I’m hoping this year we can double our numbers (800 spectators last year) and really fill the shelves at the North Bay Foodbank. Silent Auction and Chuck-a-Puck earnings will go directly to Chat4Chad, and more specifically, the First Responder support fund program and the After the Call program."
Organizers say this stream of funding gives first responders (police, fire, and ambulance) and retired first responders alike access to mental health support, therapy sessions, and other benefits retired members may lose upon retirement.
"Come out, cheer hard, and tune in for what will be a competitive, action-packed hockey game with the winner hoisting the Chat4Chad Cup!"