It’s all in the spirit of sending a message that bullying won’t be tolerated.
Delta firefighters and police officers are getting set to square off in the third annual Battle of the Badges hockey game. Set for 10:25 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 27 at North Delta’s Sungod Recreation Centre, the game is part of Delta’s Pink Shirt Day activities.
“The true message around the Battle of the Badges is it is for the kids and for us to instill the message that we need to be kind to each other, respect each other and the fact the more we do that, the more we ingrain that habit and the more we work together the better it is,” said Delta police Chief Neil Dubord.
“It [the game] really showcases how the Delta police and the Delta Fire Department work together. Even though we have different uniforms and perform different roles in the community, together we really do keep our communities safe.”
Dubord said it’s the responsibility of both police officers and firefighters to lead by example and be role models in the community.
“We need to demonstrate to students and young people that respect and understanding diversity is critically important,” he said.
Fire Chief Paul Schofield said the department is looking forward to the big game and everything the event represents.
“Battle of the Badges is a fun way for Delta police and fire to showcase the values of camaraderie and teamwork for students in the community,” said Schofield.
“Many of our most meaningful experiences on the job as firefighters and police officers are interacting with the youth of Delta. We felt that a positive event like a hockey game between police and fire would help educate students on the topic of bullying in a unique, fun environment. The Pink Shirt Day theme was a great platform to build on.”
The Delta School District and the City of Delta are also playing big roles in the game.
“Battle of the Badges is a terrific event and growing bigger every year,” said school superintendent Doug Sheppard. “Pink Shirt Day is an opportunity for our learners to come together in celebration of diversity. This event is a great reminder to our students of inclusion and respect of their peers, not just for today, but each and every day of the year.”
A total of 12 schools will be attending the game with more than 2,000 students expected to be on hand.
Joining in the fun will be local mascots, including Sparky the Fire Dog and Safety Bear from the Delta police. The two will challenge each other during intermission in a shoot-out contest.
Also in attendance will be Delta's favorite DPD canine, Caber.
“Our police officers and firefighters are important role models for the young people in our community,” added Delta school board chair Laura Dixon. “They spend a lot of time in our schools making positive connections with the students. Battle of the Badges is another opportunity for them to set a great example by modelling fair play and kindness. We are truly fortunate that in Delta our youth have these positive relationships with our first responders who lead by example.”
Mayor George Harvie said credit should be given to former mayor Lois Jackson (who is now a councillor), the school board as well as the police and fire departments for coming together to create the event.
“It is so important for our youth to understand the importance of anti-bullying and importance of insuring they stand up for someone who is getting bullied and the messaging is always so positive,” Harvie said.
“We hold this game on Pink Shirt Day, but this is messaging that needs to be championed all the time. We need to continue to interact and engage with our youth and this is just one way we are doing that.”
