Local firefighters set to skate to raise funds for mental health units

Two-day event will feature firefighters from Tay Township, Ramara, Severn, Oro-Medonte, Rama and Orillia who look to surpass last year's $5,000 fundraising total

Severn Township Fire and Emergency Services defeated Rama Fire in the first game of the inaugural Ishkode Cup last year. Tyler Evans/OrilliaMatters File Photo

Around 100 local firefighters are gearing up for the second annual Ishkode Cup hockey tournament this weekend at the Chippewas of Rama First Nation’s Mnjikaning Arena Sports Ki (MASK).

The tournament, organized by Rama Fire and Rescue Services acting Capt. Doug Rideout and Orillia Fire Department firefighter Darryl Armstrong, builds "a lot of excitement" among local firefighters.

"Last year we had a whole bunch of laughs," Armstrong said. "Everybody really got along and there was a camaraderie among all of us."

While firefighters share in their special brotherhood during the weekend of hockey, Armstrong says the games are competitive.

"It's fast hockey," he said. "It's awesome watching the speed of the guys and their ability to stick-handle."

In last year's championship game, Orillia defeated Rama in overtime to win the first annual Ishkode Cup.

"Orillia has been working on their skills together for about a month now," Armstrong said. "We are looking to defend the cup."

The charity tournament includes firefighters from Tay Township, Ramara, Severn, Oro-Medonte, Rama and Orillia. Last year it raised just under $5,000 for front-line worker and first responder mental health units.

The tournament also collects non-perishable food donations for the Rama Food Distribution Program and The Sharing Place Food Centre.

The community is invited to attend the event this weekend to cheer on their local department and support the 50/50 draw and silent auction table. Organizers are still looking for local businesses or organizations who would like to donate to the event's silent auction table. Those interested should email [email protected].

Here is a full schedule of Ishkode Cup events:

Saturday