INAUGURAL FIRST RESPONDERS HOCKEY TOURNAMENT HITS THE ICE IN ROCHESTER, NY

Hockey Tournament to Benefit First Responder Mental Health Organization

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Rochester, NY (January 30, 2024) – Tim Hortons Iceplex is proud to announce the first-ever Guardian's Cup, a charitable hockey tournament exclusively for first responders. This three-day event, taking place April 12th to 14th, 2024, goes beyond goals and saves, aiming to raise critical funds for the New York Law Enforcement Assistance Program (NYLEAP) while fostering camaraderie and celebrating the dedication of those who keep our communities safe.

The Guardian's Cup is more than just a tournament; it's a tribute to the resilience, courage, and spirit of service that define our first responders. Firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, dispatchers, and military members are invited to lace up their skates, compete with their peers, and raise funds for an important cause. The Guardian's Cup is set to create a thrilling and fiercely competitive environment, attracting first responder teams from out of town to join the action

"We are thrilled to host the Guardian's Cup at the Tim Horton's Iceplex, and we're extending an invitation to all first responders to join us for an unforgettable weekend," says Justin Stranz, Tournament Organizer. "This is a chance to showcase your skills, build connections, and support a great cause."

“This tournament is not just about hockey; it's about rallying together to make a difference,” says Tournament Director Chris Brewster. “All proceeds from the Guardian's Cup will go directly to NYLEAP, supporting their vital work in assisting first responders and their families.”

Key Information:
Dates: April 12-14, 2024
Location: Tim Horton's Iceplex, Rochester, NY
Registration: Visit www.guardianscup.com 
Beneficiary: NYLEAP (www.nyleap.org) 

Guardians Cup sponsors include Tim Hortons, Visit Rochester, Coca-Cola and Chef’s Bar & Grill. To learn more on how to become a sponsor of this great event, please contact Joe Dolce, [email protected].

For more information please visit www.guardianscup.com. For media inquiries, please contact Tournament Director Chris Brewster by email at [email protected]. 

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About NYLEAP
NYLEAP is a non-profit that offers no-cost mental health and wellness support to first responders and their families. They aim to reduce stress, trauma, and suicide rates within these communities through education, training, and peer support programs. NYLEAP provides confidential Post Critical Incident Seminars and Critical Incident Stress Debriefings to help first responders heal and recover from difficult experiences. Their goal is to empower first responders with the tools they need to live healthier, happier lives and better serve their communities. www.nyleap.org

About Tim Horton's Iceplex
Tim Hortons Iceplex is a 176,000 square foot, participatory sports facility centrally located on the campus of Monroe Community College, in Rochester N.Y. It is home to 4 NHL sized ice rinks, including Chick-fil-A Arena, which can accommodate 1,750 spectators.  The facility is home to Lattimore Physical Therapy, Lattimore Fitness, Chef's Bar & Grill, ScorZone Golf Center & Lounge and a Visit Rochester Tourism Center.