Islanders Celebrate Local First Responders
Jan 19, 2024
The Bridgeport Islanders celebrate the selflessness and tireless dedication of our local police, fire, and emergency medical workforces this weekend, hosting First Responders Night on Saturday, Jan. 20th.
The Islanders host the Hartford Wolf Pack at 7 p.m. inside Total Mortgage Arena. The first 2,500 fans receive a free challenge coin when doors open at 6 p.m. and all first responders get $5 off their game ticket at the Yale New Haven Health Box Office. The players will wear specialty First Responders warmup jerseys that are up for bid through an online auction.
But it’s just as much about what the team is doing at Total Mortgage Arena this weekend, as what it has already done in the community. Forwards Cole Bardreau, Karson Kuhlman and Reece Newkirk, along with captain Seth Helgeson, recently finished an extensive day of practice and team workouts only to surprise officers at the Shelton Police Department on Wednesday afternoon.
“It’s good to connect with the Shelton Police Department and see their day-to-day routine, and what they do for our community,” Helgeson said. “It was good to meet them and go through the day. I’m happy for them to come see us play on Saturday.”
The Islanders spent about 90 minutes at the Shelton facility touring the grounds and seeing what a day in the life of an officer is like.
“It’s always a privilege to have members of a professional sports team come and interact with us,” Officer Christopher Brosz said. “The players are always fascinated to hear about our stories and engage in conversation about what we do as police officers. We see these guys on the ice when we attend their games, but it’s nice to meet them and get to know them on a more personal level.”
Islanders players also surprised officers at the Milford Police Department with lunch recently, prepared and served first-hand out of the Liberty Rock Tavern food truck.
“We are thrilled to be a part of First Responders Night, as it highlights how important it is to stay connected within the community,” said Brittany Kearney, co-owner of Liberty Rock Tavern in Milford. “We recognize and appreciate the sacrifice our first responders make, and also the sacrifices their families make so their loved ones can serve.”
By Joe Flionis | Bridgeport Islanders