Badge and Blades in Flinton

The first Blades vs Badges Charity Hockey Classic at the Flinton rink, organised by Teri Woods and firefighter Nick SC, came off swimmingly last Saturday, thanks in part to the sunnier and warmer weather than we have seen this winter.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who showed up, contributed, and supported this special event. It was a true reflection of what can be accomplished when people rally around a shared purpose,” said Teri Woods, in her post about the event.

Badge and Blades was a day-long event built around two hockey games, a U-13 team against a team of first responders, in the late morning, and a U-18 youth team against first responders, in the afternoon.

There were skill sessions for youth framing both games, and a community lunch, and raffle as well, rounding out the day at the Flinton rink, and Rec. Centre complex.

“Many local businesses generously donated prizes for our raffle draws, and that support added excitement and helped make the day a success,” said Woods. I would like to thank Holly, Jax, Debbie, and Wendy for your time and energy selling tickets, and to our Blades and Badges players for putting on an incredible show for everyone in attendance. A big thank you to Scott for volunteering as our referee and keeping the games running smoothly.”

MPP Shelby Kramp Neuman was on hand as well, and she dropped the ceremonial puck at the start of the first game, and hung around to enjoy the sunshine, before heading off to Tamworth for a public information session about Alto Rail.

Many local businesses contributed to the event in various ways, including: Bon Echo Provincial Park, Six Glassworks, Wild Crafted Tallow, Blackwell Construction, MB Health & Performance, Ink Envy Tattoos, True Connections Therapy Services, Yourway Home Hardware, 506 Tail Gate Creations, Brandy Boutilier, AJ Stone, DMC Contracting, and Milligan’s Meats

“The skills competition was a huge hit across all age groups,” said Woods, “featuring fastest skater, fastest backwards skater, accuracy shot, and hardest shots. The winners all received medallions, thanks to the Tweed Minor Hockey Association.”

“We also want to thank the township for supporting this event and allowing us the use of township property for free,” she said.

“Because of the incredible support from everyone involved, we were able to donate $1,455 to Mya Nichols and Zoraiz Rehman and $1,455 to the Mazinaw Lake Swim Program. This was only possible because of the strength, generosity, and spirit of this community.”

Mia Nichols and Zoraiaz Reham are Hastings-Quinte paramedics who were seriously injured in a crash with a transport truck at the intersection of Hwy. 7 and Hwy. 62 at Madoc on February 2.

“Nick and I are deeply thankful to everyone who was part of this fun, and meaningful event.” ■