Thurston County firefighters and Sheriff's Office employees will face off on the basketball court Saturday, Oct. 24, at Tumwater High School, with proceeds from the fourth annual Fire and Ice game going to help local kids buy Christmas gifts.
The charity game benefits Shop With a Cop, a program that allows underserved children in Thurston County to purchase gifts for themselves and their families, according to the Nisqually Valley News. Children from Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County and Family Support Center participate in the program.
The fundraising has been growing. Last year's matchup raised nearly $9,000, an increase of about $2,000 over the year before. That money allowed 40 children to take part in Shop With a Cop.
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Tipoff is at 5:30 p.m.
Admission costs $10. Children under 12 get in free. Concessions and a food truck will be available at the gym.
On the court, the series has a real rivalry building. Team Fire, the firefighter squad, holds a 2-1 edge over Team Ice, the law enforcement side. The firefighters' most recent win came Nov. 22, 2025, a 75-56 victory.
Team Ice will try to square the series Saturday at Tumwater High.
