The Vancouver Canucks Alumni will face off against New Westminster firefighters in the biannual Hydrant Cup.
The game, held every two years at Queen's Park Arena, is a fundraiser for the New Westminster Firefighters' Charitable Society. The society donates funds to a variety of causes in the community, including the pediatric unit at Royal Columbian Hospital, the Union Gospel Mission and various food programs.
"This is our seventh game," said firefighter Paul Adamson, who is organizing this year's event. "This is our biggest fundraiser, along with our tree-chipping event. We are hoping to pass $20,000."
The 2012 Hydrant Cup takes place on Friday, Nov. 30 at Queen's Park Arena. The puck drops at 7 p.m., but doors open at 5: 30 p.m. Pre-game activities include an outdoor barbecue, the New Westminster Fire and Rescue Service's honour guard, a display of fire trucks, music by the New Westminster Secondary School jazz band, a visit from Sparky the fire dog and Fin the Canucks mascot, face painting and a clown.
The night's fun includes a 50/50 draw, Frisbee toss, silent auction and scrimmage between two minor hockey teams.
In addition to raising funds for various projects supported by the New Westminster Firefighters' Charitable Society, the game also provides an opportunity for local schools and teams to raise funds. They'll receive $5 from each $10 family (two adults and two children) purchase they sell.
"We want to fill the rink," Adamson said. "It's a good incentive for the PACs at the school and the teams as well."
Retired Canucks Dave Babych and Orland Kurtenbach will join forces to coach the Canucks Alumni team. Confirmed players for the Canucks include Cliff Ronning, Kirk McLean, Mark Lofthouse, Garry Valk, Gary Nylund, David Bruce, Larry Melnyk, Terry Bingley and Rick Amann.
"We are happy with the lineup. It should be a good game. We are putting our best firefighters forward," Adamson said. "They are entertaining games."
New Westminster resident and retired NHL goalie Bill Ranford, a big supporter of the Hydrant Cup and the goalie coach for the Los Angeles Kings, is trying to fit the game into his schedule. Royal City resident John Ashbridge, who is the voice of the Canucks at many of their home games, will announce the game.
In addition to raising funds for the New Westminster Firefighters' Charitable Society, the Hydrant Cup also raises money for Queen's Park Care Centre.
Tickets are $10 for a family of four (two adults and two children) or $5 each. They can be purchased at the Glenbrook Fire Hall (1 East Sixth Ave.) or at Queen's Park Arena.
