New Westminster police and firefighters will be facing off for the first-ever Fall Classic.
KidSport New West is hosting the inaugural New West Fall Classic hockey game on Saturday, Sept. 21. The two teams taking the ice will feature members from New Westminster Fire and Rescue Services and the New Westminster Police Department, who are all donating their time to support the cause.
All funds raised will go to the KidSport New West chapter.
“Much like our counterparts in other cities across Canada, KidSport New West’s goal has always been to minimize barriers for local children under 18 to participate in organized sports,” said Jen Arbo, co-chair of KidSport New West. “We work to provide kids in New West with bursaries of up to $400 annually so all kids can play.”
According to Arbo, 2023 was KidSport New West’s busiest year yet.
“We funded 120 kids with approximately $41,000 worth of grants, and this event will be one of our main ways of ensuring that we can continue to support the community,” she said. “When families are struggling financially, organized sports are the first to go. Organized sports can help with so many parts of a child’s development, from academic performance to teamwork.”
Organizers are planning an evening of excitement and fun for the first ever New West Fall Classic.
In addition to the on-ice action, the fundraiser includes a variety of food trucks, an emergency vehicle display, first intermission on-ice action featuring players from New West Minor Hockey Association, a silent auction, a 50/50 draw, a fundraising duck toss, and more.
The event is licensed, and beer sales will be supported by local brewery Steel & Oak Brewing Co.
Doors to Queen’s Park Arena will open at 4 p.m., and the puck drops at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 each ($11.98 with service fees) and can be purchased online.
