Police vs. Fire hockey game to benefit fallen officer

With the temperatures outside reaching the century mark, what better way is there to cool off than an evening at the hockey rink? The Tulsa Area Police Hockey Team has challenged the Tulsa Area Fire Department Hockey Team to a game this Saturday, August 7 at the Oilers Ice Center located at 6413 South Mingo Road. Face-off is set for 7:00 p.m. with all proceeds from the contest going to the Jeff Stiles Memorial Fund. 

Stiles, a Wagoner County Deputy, was killed in an off-duty traffic collision on July 9. He began his career in law enforcement with the Coweta Police Department. Friends and co-workers have described him as a "well-liked, respected deputy who worked closely with surrounding agencies." He left behind a wife, two small children and many friends in the law enforcement community.

The game, billed as "Guns-N-Hoses" will be the third time the two squads have met head-to-head, the hoses owning a 2-0 record. Police team spokesman Chris Walker promised that the game will be exciting and competitive. "We're 0-2 in the games, but we plan on winning the trophy back this year," he said. Walker said that the talent level will be a step above what most people would expect to see at an amateur game. Both teams play competitively, and regularly travel to tournaments, some as far away as Dallas. 

In the two previous Guns-N-Hoses games, proceeds went to The Burn Camp and Special Olympics Oklahoma. Walker said that they decided to play the game for the Jeff Stiles Memorial Fund because several of the participants and co-workers of the participants knew, and worked along side Stiles.

Aside from the game, Walker said those in attendance will have chances to win door prizes and a raffles that include gift cards and other prizes. More prizes await at the official after party at The Twisted Lizard, located at 6901 South Mingo Road. Members of both teams will be at the after party where items such as golf memberships, golf passes, golf clubs, and Budweiser memorabilia will be auctioned.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets are available at the door on the night of the game, the Oilers Ice Center, The Twisted Lizard or from any player.