When the puck drops on Saturday, March 1, Cobourg’s police officers and firefighters are hoping to score a hat trick or two for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-West Durham and Northumberland.
Community members can cheer on their preferred team by heading over to the Cobourg Community Centre at 750 D’Arcy St. for the second annual “Battle of the Badges” charity hockey game, with family-friendly pre-game activities beginning at 5:30 p.m. followed by the game at 7 p.m.
“We’re excited to hit the ice again for such an important cause,” Cobourg Police Service Constable Ryan Rinneard told kawarthaNOW. “The friendly rivalry between the police and fire brings our community together and helps support youth through the incredible work of (Big Brothers Big Sisters).”
The Town of Cobourg invites residents to mark their calendars and bring along their friends and family members for an evening of fun in support of a great cause. Proceeds will benefit “an organization that has been changing lives through the power of mentorship and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year,” a media release noted.
The inaugural event raised $3,550, with the hopes to double that amount this year.
“Last year, we had a great crowd come out to cheer on the players and help raise awareness and funds to support (Big Brothers Big Sisters),” Lisa Munday, manager of communications and strategic planning for Cobourg Police Service, told kawarthaNOW. “With a bit more lead time this year, we hope for another great night of hockey and to double our fundraising totals.”
“The Battle of the Badges hockey game in Cobourg is a fantastic night out because it combines exciting hockey action with a friendly rivalry between the Cobourg Police and Cobourg Fire,” Munday added. “This event not only showcases the competitive spirit but also supports a great cause.”
The event gets underway at 5:30 p.m. when an interactive fun zone opens, with DJ Joel Wesley spinning the tunes. Activities require a minimum donation of $2 to participate. The ceremonial puck drop is at 7 p.m, followed by “an epic showdown” when the game gets underway.
While admission to the game is free, community members are encouraged to make donations at the door.
The evening also features a 50/50 draw, performances by Just Dance Northumberland, face painting, and photo opportunities with mascots Chippy the Squirrel, Chase the Police Dog, and Sparky the Fire Dog. There will be food and beverages available for purchase. Prep Food Co. will be on site offering cookies for a $2 donation.
Event supporters include Brock Street Brewery, Puck It, Canadian Tire, and New Amherst Homes. Meanwhile, the Cobourg Cougars junior hockey team will be donating the proceeds from their 3 p.m. game’s 50/50 draw and chuck-a-puck event to the cause.
For more information about the game, including sponsorship opportunities, visit www.experiencecobourg.ca/portfolio/battleofthebadges/.
The event’s beneficiary, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-West Durham and Northumberland, has been changing lives through the power of mentorship for the past five decades, the media release noted.
The organization offers one-to-one and group programs that aim to help children build self-confidence, develop essential life skills, and forge meaningful connections within their communities.
“Our mentors do more than offer guidance; they become trusted role models who inspire values like giving back, staying committed to education, and treating others with respect — from family and friends to the broader community,” the release stated. “Every mentor-child match and every in-school program sparks something extraordinary — life-changing relationships grounded in trust, friendship, and empowerment.”
