BRIGHTON, N.Y. — First responders from across New York gathered in Brighton to compete in the annual “Guardian Cup” ice hockey tournament. The event kicked off with an opening ceremony at the Tim Hortons Iceplex.

This year, the tournament featured police, deputies, firefighters, and for the first time, veterans. News10NBC spoke with two veterans who expressed excitement about playing against others they can relate to on a deeper level.

“Hockey is a soothing sport, right? So, being around in the community of veterans, law enforcement, you know, EMTs, everything, it’s a true honor to be around a community such as this,” Robb Carpenter said. Proceeds from the “Guardian Cup” support the New York Law Enforcement Assistance Program.

The tournament runs throughout the weekend, with the next game scheduled for Saturday at 8:15 a.m.

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