08/30/2026
BATTLE OF THE BADGES
The Sanford Center and the United Way of Bemidji Area are thrilled to announce the Battle of the Badges hockey game between local Fire and Law Enforcement officials.
This game will take place on October 10th, 2026, at 4:00 PM at The Sanford Center. The matchup will feature local hockey talent, fun and engaging in-game activities, and afterwards, a watch party and open skate for those to witness the BSU Beavers take on UND from afar, all for free admission.
“We are very excited to build another event to be able to support our community in collaboration with our local Law Enforcement, Fire, First Responders, and The United Way. When community leaders come together to create partnerships founded on the principles of giving back to the community that we serve, great things happen. We anticipate this event to make a deep community impact for years to come!”, stated Bobby Anderson, General Manager of The Sanford Center.
“We’re so grateful to the men and women in our community who spend their days serving and protecting us, and who are now coming together to support the people they serve in a whole new way. Battle of the Badges is a fun night of hockey, but it’s also a great example of what happens when our community comes together.”, stated Denae Alamano, Executive Director of the United Way of Bemidji Area.
This idea was originally proposed by our local first responders to enjoy a fun and competitive matchup while raising awareness and support for the United Way of Bemidji Area.
The event is free to attend, with optional donations benefiting United Way and its mission to build a stronger community for all.
