By Taylor MacPherson

Police and youth strengthen ties with friendly hockey game

Nov 22, 2016 | 1:00 PM

Members of the Prince Albert Police Service took on a team of youth from Won Ska Cultural Public School today in a friendly game of floor hockey to strengthen ties between the two groups.

Won Ska is part of the P.A. Outreach Program, offering cultural and spiritual education programs for at-risk youth meant to help students achieve their goals and avoid the street life. The Won Ska Warriors fielded players aged 15 to 20 for the game against the P.A. Police Enforcers, held at the Alfred Jenkins Field House.

“Our kids come out and they enjoy it,” Colleen McCallum, Won Ska recreation coordinator, said. “It makes [for] better relations with the city police and some of our kids.”

McCallum said the Won Ska students issued the challenge to the police through the school’s community liaison officer.

Police Chief Troy Cooper, who played defence for the Enforcers, said his department was happy to accept the challenge.

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“We have a real interest in developing relationships with youth, authentic relationships, and I think events like this allow us an opportunity to do that,” Cooper said.

“We have a lot of officers who care about the young people in the community,” he said. “This was just a really fun way for us to interact in a positive way.”

The game was a high-scoring back and forth affair, with fans as enthusiastic as the players. After the dust settled the score stood 12-11 for the police, with both sides already looking forward to playing again next year.

“We were excited to come out and show the kids what we can do here, and we’ve come away with a lucky win,” Cooper said. “But I’m sure they’ll practice over the next year and come back next year even harder.”

After accepting the trophy, Cooper sent a clear message to the Won Ska players.

“Remember the police are your friends, but not in floor hockey,” he said.

Taylor.macpherson@jpbg.ca

@TMacPhersonNews