Lancaster County, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Lancaster County’s second annual Battle of the Badges hockey game drew a large crowd at the Lancaster Ice Rink, raising approximately $7,466 for families of fallen officers. The friendly rivalry featured police and firefighters in jerseys, celebrating community spirit while honoring fallen heroes. With an intense game showcasing local talent, the firefighters triumphed over the police team with a score of 8 to 5. The event continues to strengthen the bond between first responders and the community.
Lancaster County saw an impressive turnout for the second annual Battle of the Badges hockey game on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, at the Lancaster Ice Rink. This charity event, which features local firefighters and police officers wearing jerseys instead of their uniforms, aims to raise funds for the families of fallen officers. This year, the game raised approximately $7,466 to support the families of officers who died in the line of duty.
The game was established as a friendly rivalry between Manheim Township police Corporal Marc Wiczkowski and Manheim Township Fire Rescue firefighter Ryan Gardill. Both individuals, who are active hockey players, initiated the event to foster community support and showcase competitive spirit between local first responders. The inaugural event last year generated around $7,800 for The Yard Foundation.
A poignant aspect of this year’s game was its tribute to the fallen Northern York County Regional detectives—Mark Baker, Isaiah Emenheiser, and Detective Sgt. Cody Becker. A moment of silence was held before the match to honor their memories. Among the participants were firefighter Corbin Keiser of Rohrerstown Fire Company and Officer Eric Cudnohufsky of New Holland Police Department.
The game was intense, featuring aggressive plays right from the start. Body checks occurred within the first 90 seconds of gameplay, leading to an electrifying atmosphere for the fans. In the end, the Lancaster Fire Department triumphed over the police team with a score of 8 to 5. Chief Kevin Keiser of Columbia Boro Fire Department played as goalie, delivering significant saves throughout the match and helping ensure victory for the firefighters.
The competitive spirit of the event was a highlight, reflecting the ongoing rivalry between police and firefighters. The game was not only about hockey; it included additional activities such as a color guard from Lancaster Bureau of Police and Fire, a “Touch-A-Truck” event for children, a 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction, all designed to engage the community and raise additional funds.
Organizers of the Battle of the Badges reiterated their commitment to continuing this tradition in future years to support first-responder families in need. The bleachers at the Lancaster Ice Rink were packed with fans, showing their support for local heroes during this charitable occasion.
The Battle of the Badges demonstrates the strong bond between community members and first responders, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by those in public service. With its competitive spirit and purpose, the event stands as a symbol of resilience and camaraderie within Lancaster County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the Battle of the Badges hockey game?
The Battle of the Badges hockey game aimed to raise funds for the families of fallen officers.
Who participated in the hockey game?
Firefighters and police officers from across Lancaster County participated, wearing jerseys instead of their uniforms.
How much money was raised during the event?
This year, the game raised approximately $7,466 for the families of the fallen officers.
Which fallen officers were honored during the event?
This year, the game honored the fallen Northern York County Regional detectives Mark Baker, Isaiah Emenheiser, and Detective Sgt. Cody Becker, killed in the line of duty.
What was the score of the game?
The Lancaster Fire Department celebrated a victory over the police team with a score of 8 to 5.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Battle of the Badges |
| Location | Lancaster Ice Rink |
| Date | October 11, 2025 |
| Funds Raised | $7,466 |
| Organizations Benefitting | Families of fallen officers |
| Key Participants | Firefighters and police officers from Lancaster County |
| Game Score | Fire Department 8, Police Team 5 |
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