While the Toronto Police Tinmen may have fallen short to the Brampton Fire Demons, KidSport Ontario were the real winners.
Their March 4 match took place at FirstOntario Centre in Hamilton, the home of the Toronto Rock, with the Fire Demons ultimately coming out on top 11-5.
It was the fourth such meeting between the teams, originating after Team Managers David Sawyer (Toronto Police Service) and Michael Gillan (Brampton Fire Services) connected through facing each other at the World Police and Fire Games and decided to continue their rivalry annually.
“I have a few connections from some time with the NLL (National Lacrosse League) and reaching out to them we were able to set something up and it’s continued,” Gillan said.
Both teams used to each raise money for charities of their own choosing, however this year decided to combine to support KidSport Ontario, who introduce kids to sports and fund thier participation.
Sawyer, who is the Toronto Police Amateur Athletic Association (TPAAA) Lacrosse Chair and Past President, has worked with KidSport Ontario before and was happy to be able to support them.
“We’ve (TPAAA) been involved with KidSport Ontario for at least 15 years, and they provide funding for kids who may not be able to afford leagues or equipment,” he said. “So these funds will help kids be able to become involved in sport.”
Fundraising continued at the Rock game later that night, where proceeds of ticket sales and a silent auction will continually add to their expected total of $5,000.
With the head-to-head record of the two teams now standing at 2-2, they both can’t wait to take the field again, especially for a good cause.
