Firefighters trump cops in Conn. charity hockey game

Fire department donated its proceeds from charity game to the families of two Bridgeport firefighters who died in a 2010 fire

April 04, 2011 05:40 AM

By William Kaempffer
The New Haven Register

NEW HAVEN, Conn. — There could have been a claim of police brutality as the Fire Department hockey team overcame a first-period deficit to handily defeat their Police Department rivals at Ingall’s Rink Saturday.

The Fire Department prevailed 9-6, taking an 8-7 lead in the 15- year grudge match between the city’s bravest and finest. But the game, fans and players said, represents more than that.

The Fire Department donated its proceeds to the families of two Bridgeport firefighters who died in a 2010 fire.

“It’s all the same brotherhood,” said Bridgeport Firefighter Joe Lachioma, 36, an 11-year veteran who came with a contingent of Park City firefighters to show their appreciation. “You could go across the country, and it’s all the same brotherhood.”

Despite the outcome, police Officer Michael Pepe expressed pride just wearing the white NHPD sweater during the game. He and Officer Dave Shaefer were among 16 cops laid off in February. Both already had practiced and purchased uniforms, so they played for the police team.

This week, Pepe was called back to the force after a spot opened. “It just feels good. ... It feels amazing, to get called back four days before the game,” Pepe said after the game. “I think I’m the most excited because I got my job back, to be able to wear the badge that you play for.”

Shaefer landed on his feet too, securing a job with West Haven police. He said he also was proud to wear the sweater of his previous department.

Proceeds benefited the families of the Bridgeport firefighters and New Haven police Officer Pete Kruase, who is battling brain cancer. The teams also donated a 51-inch TV and video game system to the Hospital of Saint Raphael’s pediatric outpatient psychiatric clinic.

But the friendly collaboration ended Saturday at Ingall’s Rink, when Firefighter Rob Celentano and police Sgt. Herbie Johnson renewed their 20-year rivalry, which dates back to high school glory days.

“I want Herbie to know there’s no hard feelings,” Celentano said as he skated off the ice with the Chief’s Cup trophy. “I just feel really bad because his mother is in the stands crying because she really wants to win.”

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