The Guns and Hoses hockey game is a unique charity event that pits local police officers (Team Guns) against firefighters (Team Hoses) in a spirited competition on the ice. These games are not just about hockey; they are about community, camaraderie, and raising money for important causes.
The Origin of Guns and Hoses
The concept of a Guns and Hoses hockey game emerged in late 2002 when Jon Baker of the Muskegon Police Department approached Todd Rake of the Muskegon Fire Department with the idea. Their vision was to create a fun and engaging way for emergency response personnel to give back to the community, specifically benefiting children in need.
They also aimed to highlight the positive influence that firefighters, police officers, medics, and other emergency responders have as role models in Muskegon County.
Evolution and Expansion
The Guns and Hoses tradition has expanded beyond Muskegon and found its way into other communities, such as Saginaw and Roanoke. The event started in 2007, an idea submitted by Spirit employees Lisa Bluew and Tory Newberry, according to Spirit partner/ president Craig Goslin.
In 2013, new members were introduced to lead the event: Lacey Koens for the Hoses and Chris Wilks for the Guns.
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The Saginaw Spirit Game
The fundraiser recently took place for the sixth time, prior to the Saginaw Spirit game against Belleville on Nov. 3. According to Klomp "Tory Newberry contacted our headquarters and spoke with an assistant chief, who in turn contacted a couple of us, Dale Fisk and myself". Finding players was not a problem.
“Quite a few of the cops and firemen around here play men’s league hockey, either in Saginaw or Bay City or Midland, so we already knew each other,” East said.
The “Hoses” team was represented by Klomp, Brian Pike, Scott Santillian, Jacob Gilginas, Joe Cerino, Matt Schaeding, Dale Fisk, Chadd Riley, J.P.
The Rivalry and Sportsmanship
While the Guns and Hoses game is a charity event, the competitive spirit is undeniable. The players split into separate teams, don their respective uniforms, and keep score with enthusiasm.
“It’s fun, and we laugh about it afterwards, but if you know cops and firefighters, you know there’s a lot of pride on both sides,” said Sgt. Mike East of the Saginaw Police Department.
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Roger Klomp, a lieutenant with the Saginaw Township Fire Department, agreed. “It gets pretty serious,” Klomp said. “It’s supposed to be “no checking,” but people get carried away . . . someone ‘accidentally’ elbows someone in the corner, stuff like that.
Team Guns vs. Team Hoses: A Friendly Competition
Team Guns has often dominated the series, but Team Hoses secured a 4-3 victory in a shootout in 2012. The friendly banter between the teams adds to the excitement.
“The cops were telling us that they were gonna have all of our cars towed if we won the game,” Klomp said.
“Nah, we’d never do anything like that, at least not right after the game,” East said. “We’ll let some time pass.”
Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs and First Responder Night
The Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs also participate in honoring first responders. It's First Responder Night, and we are offering $10 tickets to responders with valid ID at the box office for any level of seating!
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Adult Public Safety Hockey Tournament
The Adult Public Safety Hockey Tournament is designed for Adult Police/Fire/Military/Government Agency Teams. Adult (21 & Older) NON-PUBLIC SAFETY & PUBLIC SAFETY Divisions are open to Adult Men's & Women's House/Rec League, Police, Fire & Military teams only.
Here are some key details about the tournament structure:
- Each team will play a minimum of three (3) games throughout the tournament event.
- Games may be scheduled at 4-6 rinks, all centrally located for transit convenience.
- Semi-Final Rounds or Consolation Games for all divisions are guaranteed.
The tournament schedule typically includes games on:
- Friday | 1 or More Games Possible [Morning / Afternoon / Evening]
- Saturday | 1 or More Games Possible [Morning / Afternoon / Evening]
- Sunday | 1 or More Games Possible [Morning / Afternoon / Evening]
Teams should expect to play starting Friday morning. Final games may not conclude until 5pm or later on Sunday. If traveling by air, please reach out with return flight info as soon as able for our scheduling team.
Divisions are leveled based on rosters. Round robin divisions may split into multiple playoff divisions for better competition.
Additional Benefits and Registration
Over 20% of your team registration fee is going directly to the foundation! With added benefits only found at Dallas Stars Tournaments events, this truly is the “All Call” Adult Classic hockey tournament of the summer!
All players must be 21 by the start date of the tournament to participate in any USA Hockey Adult Classic.
To secure your spot, please register your team today by clicking on the appropriate Division link on the left Nav bar! For any inquiries or additional information, please CLICK HERE to complete our online Contact form.
| Division | Level | Team Structure |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Public Safety | Various | Adult Police/Fire/Military/Government Agency Teams |
| Adult Non-Public Safety | Various | Adult House/Rec League Teams - Men & Women |