Local firefighters facing off to raise money for mental health – OrilliaMatters.com

What started as a friendly hockey tournament between neighbouring fire departments has grown into a regional event firefighters now mark on their calendars months in advance.
The fourth annual Ishkode Cup charity hockey tournament will bring six fire departments together at Mnjikaning Arena Sports Ki (MASK) in Rama First Nation next weekend, where about 120 firefighters are expected to take to the ice while raising money for first-responder mental health initiatives and local charities.
Organized by Orillia Fire acting Capt. Darryl Armstrong, and Rama Fire and Rescue Services acting Capt. Doug Rideout, the tournament has steadily expanded since it first began several years ago as a way to strengthen relationships between departments while supporting important causes.
“We’ve raised over $17,000 in the past three years," Armstrong said. "That’s been going out to charitable organizations." 
The event now features teams from Rama, Orillia, Ramara, Severn, Oro-Medonte and Tay, with each department bringing a full roster along with support staff and volunteers. Armstrong said the excitement among firefighters has grown as the tournament has developed into an annual tradition.
“A lot of people now look forward to it and book their time off for that weekend,” he said. “When you meet up with different firefighters at different calls, they’re like, ‘Hey, is that happening again this year?’”
Each team roster must be made up of at least 75 per cent active firefighters from that department, with the remaining spots filled by family members, friends, or others connected to the first responder community.
While the tournament has become increasingly competitive on the ice, Armstrong said its core purpose remains focused on connection and support.
Tay Fire Department enters the weekend as the defending champion after winning the Ishkode Cup the past two years. Last year’s final saw Tay defeat host Rama, and Armstrong said there are plenty of friendly rivalries that keep the games entertaining for fans.
“Rama versus Orillia is always exciting,” he said. “Orillia versus Severn always seems to be a crowd pleaser.”
Despite the competitive spirit, Armstrong said the event is ultimately about bringing firefighters together.
“It’s unbelievable,” he said of the camaraderie between departments. 
Proceeds raised during the tournament will support first responder mental health initiatives. Armstrong said firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, nurses and others working on the front lines can all benefit from the programs funded through the event.
This year, organizers will also make donations to local food banks. Entry to the tournament is a non-perishable food item or a cash donation, with food collected for The Sharing Place in Orillia and the Rama Food Bank.
Armstrong said the tournament will also provide additional support to the Salvation Army, which helped firefighters and displaced residents during the major downtown Peter Street fire last year.
Community support has played a major role in the tournament’s success, with local businesses donating items for raffles and fundraising efforts.
“I’ve never been rejected,” Armstrong said. “Every business I’ve walked into has been very open and receptive.”
The tournament begins Saturday, March 28, at 9 a.m., with a family skate scheduled for noon, followed by a group photo and opening ceremonies shortly after. Games will continue throughout the weekend, with playoff matchups and the championship final scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
“Come support your firefighters,” Armstrong said. “It’s fast-paced hockey and fun to watch.”
A full schedule of events can be found here. 
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