OLPD vs OLFD: Hockey Game Helps Local Charities

It’s cops vs. firefighters in the eighth annual and eighth annual charity hockey game. The grudge match commences at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, April 1, at the Tickets are $5 for adults, $2 for students. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Every year, police and firefighters raise money for a worthy cause in a high-flying, blade-thrashing, feats-of-strength hockey game. This year, they’re playing for the Easter Seals Autism Therapeutic School in Tinley Park and Make- A-Wish Foundation of Illinois.

Since the OLPD and OLFD started the game in 2004, they’ve raised over $24,000 for charity. The village’s first responders hope to raise $4,000 this year.

Sgt. Jim Pacetti of the Oak Lawn Police Department described the game as an inexpensive night out for the family.

“You can come out and laugh at the police and firemen,” Pacetti said. “We’re not professional hockey players. We’re out there to have fun.”

Raffles, a silent auction and split-the-pot drawing are also featured.