WEST ORANGE, NJ — An enthusiastic crowd of hockey fans recently showed up to watch West Orange firefighters and police officers take on the New Jersey Warriors in a charity game at Richard J. Codey Arena.
The spirited matchup on Feb. 28 featured a combined team from the West Orange Fire Department and West Orange Police Department known as the “West Orange All Stars.”
On the other side of the ice were the New Jersey Warriors, a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization affiliated with the NHL’s New Jersey Devils. The program provides disabled U.S. military veterans with an outlet for rehabilitation and camaraderie through the game of ice hockey.
The ceremonial first puck was dropped by former NHL standout Bruce Driver, who played for both the Devils and the New York Rangers.
“The West Orange All Stars skated to a 5 to 3 victory over the Warriors,” West Orange communications officer Joseph Fagan reported. “But beyond the final score, there were no losers. In reality all our first responders and former and active military are winners every day as they keep us safe.”
All the proceeds from the game will go to support disabled veterans, organizers said. To donate used hockey equipment or make a tax-free donation, visit njwarriors.org.
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