[Press Release] Police and Firefighters Face Off October 28 in 3rd Annual Baptist Health Fire & Ice Hockey Challenge Cup

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 23, 2026
Contact: Thank You First Responder PR
(954)762-7000 | Media@ThankYouFirstResponder.org
@ThankYouFirstResponder

Police and Firefighters Face Off October 28 in 3rd Annual Baptist Health FIRE & ICE Hockey Challenge Cup

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – October 23, 2026 – South Florida police officers and firefighters will take the ice against each other on Wednesday, Oct. 28, in the 3rd Annual Baptist Health FIRE & ICE Hockey Challenge Cup at the Baptist Health IcePlex. Held on National First Responders Day, the game raises money for free mental health and peer support programs for the region’s First Responders.

Thank You First Responder (TYFRO), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit that organizes the event, today named the WhiteFlag App as Official Mental Health Partner for this year’s game. WhiteFlag, a free, anonymous, 24/7 peer-support app, supports TYFRO’s work to put mental health resources and peer support within reach of frontline personnel across South Florida.

The evening brings police officers, firefighters, their families and South Florida residents together to honor the courage and sacrifice of first responders. The two sides will play for the FIRE & ICE Challenge Cup trophy and a year of local bragging rights.

“This event is more than a game. It’s a moment for South Florida to unite, celebrate and directly support the men and women who keep our communities safe every single day,” said Stanton Smith, co-founder of Thank You First Responder. “With the WhiteFlag App joining us as our Official Mental Health Partner, we can reach more first responders with the mental health resources and peer connections they deserve.”

“Baptist Health is honored to host the Fire & ICE Hockey Challenge Cup at the IcePlex once again,” said Kate Goldman, assistant vice president of government and community relations at Baptist Health South Florida. “First responders give so much to protect our communities every day. Supporting an evening that honors their dedication while promoting critical mental health and wellness initiatives aligns directly with our mission to heal and strengthen South Florida.”

Where the Proceeds Go

Proceeds and corporate sponsorships from the event fund three local First Responder programs:

• • Peer Support through WhiteFlag: TYFRO partners with WhiteFlag, a free, anonymous, 24/7 peer-support app. A user drops a “white flag” and is connected immediately with peers who share similar experiences, such as PTSD, depression, trauma or high-stress work. The app requires no personally identifiable information, and filters let first responders chat directly with active or retired frontline personnel.
  • Leadership & Mental Health Training: Free online leadership training built on curriculum from John Maxwell Leadership Training, plus Mental Health First Aid resources, for active-duty personnel and service-disabled veterans.
  • First Responder Skate: A free public skate for First Responders.

Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are still available. To sponsor, discuss a custom activation or make a tax-deductible donation or to get involved, call (954) 762-7000 or email Sponsor@ThankYouFirstResponder.org.

About Thank You First Responder
Thank You First Responder (TYFRO) is a national grassroots 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2014, dedicated to honor the commitment and sacrifice of First Responders through community events, support programs and advocacy. Founded by passionate leaders and supporters of First Responders and their families, TYFRO strives to create a “Culture of Thank You” and empower those who protect our communities every day. Watch our Official Music Video. For more information, please visit ThankYouFirstResponder.org. Nonprofit Tax ID #47-2886226. #ThankYouFirstResponder #TYFRO #LocalHeroes #CultureOfThankYou #NationalFirstRespondersDay

About Baptist Health IcePlex
The Baptist Health IcePlex in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a sports and entertainment facility, a community hub and the official practice facility of the Florida Panthers.