Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
It was a showdown of epic proportions. One which only the bravest of brave souls dared to participate. In one corner--the Firefighters (aka Hoses) readied themselves to defend their hard-fought victory last year, which ended in a shoot-out (no pun intended).
In the other corner, the Police (aka Guns), who were eager for their own return to victory after winning the first Guns-n-Hoses tournament in 2021.
The stage, or rather ice rink was set at the Menard Sports Center in Wasilla, on November 22, where an estimated 2,500 enthusiastic fans came together for an unforgettable night. And they were not disappointed.
It was all part of the 4th annual Mat-Su Guns N’ Hoses charity hockey game that the brought the community together as local police and firefighters hit the ice in friendly rivalry — all for a great cause.
The Police (aka Guns) emerged victorious, defeating the Firefighters (aka Hoses) with a final score of 6–2.
Proceeds from this year’s event proudly support the Anchorage Northstar Girls 16U and 19U hockey teams, helping young female athletes continue to grow in the sport, as well as additional Mat-Su charities throughout the coming year.
The organization extends sincere thanks to its major sponsors: David Eller with Edward Jones, Prism Construction and Design, Red Point Construction, and the Public Safety Employee Association. Mat-Su Guns N’ Hoses also expresses deep appreciation to their Board of Directors, who volunteered countless hours to plan and execute the event, as well as to all additional sponsors, contributors, and volunteers who ensured the night’s success.
Crowd engagement was boosted by Newcity Entertainment, who served as the announcer for the night. The event also featured Turkey Bowling, which collected turkey donations to help Mat-Su families in need this holiday season.
Mat-Su Guns N’ Hoses is proud to continue bringing the community together through friendly competition and charitable support both on and off the ice. Mat-Su Guns N’ Hoses is a community-driven charitable organization that unites local first responders, residents, and businesses for an annual hockey game that supports youth athletics, local nonprofits, and families in need. Each year, the event continues to grow — strengthening community bonds both on and off the ice.
To learn more, please visit www.matgunsnhoses.com

