Police and Firefighters “Battle of the Badges” Charity Hockey Game

Police and Firefighters Face Off in “Battle of the Badges” Charity Hockey Game Supporting Local Cancer Research

Windsor’s heroes are trading badges for hockey sticks as members of the Windsor Police Service and Windsor Fire & Rescue Service face off in the first annual Battle of the Badges charity hockey game — proudly in support of Play for a Cure and the Cancer Research Collaboration Fund (CRCF).

This inaugural event unites two of the city’s most dedicated first-responder teams for an evening of intense competition, community pride, and compassion. All proceeds will directly support local cancer research initiatives, helping to advance innovative treatments and improve patient outcomes across Windsor-Essex.

“Every goal scored helps move us closer to finding a cure,” says Jeff Casey, founder of Play for a Cure and Chair of the Cancer Research Collaboration Fund. “Battle of the Badges isn’t just about hockey—it’s about unity, courage, and standing together for those who need it most.”

“These events provide the opportunity to meet and interact directly with our community and allow us to ‘Give Back!’” says Rob Hallett of the Windsor Police Service. “We encourage everyone to ‘Get Involved’ and work together with the
Windsor Police Service to ‘Make a Difference’ in our community.”

Pat Lo Mascolo of Windsor Fire & Rescue Services adds, “The Battle of the Badges is more than a hockey game—it’s about building community partnerships and showing that when we work together, we can create lasting, positive change. Our
firefighters are proud to stand beside our police colleagues in support of cancer research and the families who are impacted every day.”

Fans can expect a high-energy, best-on-best matchup featuring family entertainment, community partner activations, and special appearances. Both teams will take the ice in custom Play for a Cure jerseys honoring those affected by cancer.

Play for a Cure unites athletes, fans, and the community in the fight against cancer. In partnership with the WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF), proceeds from Play for a Cure events — including the Pro-Am Hockey Tournament and Battle of the Badges — are directed through the Cancer Research Collaboration Fund (CRCF) to support cutting-edge local research. Together, these initiatives have raised more than $1.8 million to advance cancer research, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen health innovation across the Windsor-Essex region.