Surrey police and firefighters to face off in Oct. 10 charity hockey game

Police officers and firefighters will play in the inaugural Surrey Showdown charity hockey game at South Surrey Arena on Saturday, Oct. 10. Proceeds will support charities connected to Surrey Fire and Surrey Police, including local programs, community initiatives and families in need.

Organizer Mike Essel, a firefighter who plays hockey, said the game should feature a strong level of competition, with hoped-for former NHL players as well as higher-level junior and college players. Former Vancouver Canuck Denis Pederson, now a firefighter, is expected to play. Essel said the contest will be competitive but remains a community-focused fundraiser, and he does not expect it to become overly heated.

Nearly 500 tickets have been sold through zeffy.com, Essel said. General admission is $10, youth tickets are $5 and children under five are admitted free. Puck drop is at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.; the arena has capacity for 1,242 spectators. The event will also include a beer garden, 50/50 draw, games and activities, followed by a Battle of the Bands during the second intermission featuring Surrey Police and Fire bands.