News release
For immediate release
ESQUIMALT, BC—The community is invited to a weekend of camaraderie, competition and community spirit at the 2nd Annual Ken Gill & Forrest Owens Memorial Hockey Tournament. This special event brings together first responders and community members to honor the lives of two extraordinary firefighters, raise mental health awareness and promote resilience within the first responder community.
Originally conceived as a single hockey game to honor fallen first responders, the event has grown into a full-fledged tournament celebrating the legacies of Ken Gill and Forrest Owens. Both men devoted their lives to the fire service advocating for mental health and wellness among first responders.
Ken’s passing in 2018 followed by Forrest’s death in 2022 from job-related cancer, underscored the need for greater focus on the mental health and well-being of those in the fire service. The tournament serves as a reminder of the challenges firefighters face—both physical and mental. It’s about more than just hockey—it’s about mental health awareness, building resilience and honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Details:
- April 4 & 5, 2025; 9am-5pm
- Archie Browning Arena (1151 Esquimalt Rd) & Wurtele Arena (737 Admirals Rd at CFB Esquimalt)
Tournament divisions and charities:
Forrest Owens Division (Archie Browning Arena)
- Esquimalt FD – Neighborhood House
- Victoria FD – Courtnall Society
- Central Saanich FD – Forrest Owens Memorial Scholarship Award
- Saanich FD – Wounded Warrior Canada
- Sidney FD – Peninsula Food Bank
Ken Gill Division (Wurtele Arena)
- DND FD – Wounded Warriors Canada
- Nanaimo FD – Courtnall Society
- Oak Bay FD – Courtnall Society
- Langford FD – Goldstream Food Bank
- View Royal & Colwood FD – Victoria Hospital Foundation (NICU)
"This tournament is a celebration of camaraderie, but it's also an important reminder that the challenges our firefighters face extend far beyond the fireground,” said Fire Chief Matt Furlot. “We are committed to not only remembering those we've lost but continuing the work they started, fostering mental wellness and providing the support that first responders so desperately need."
The Lions are providing food at Wurtele from 11AM-3PM on Friday April 4. The concession at Archie Browning will be run by the Victoria Cougars from 11AM-3PM both days. Staff at Archie Browning Arena will also be serving refreshments at the Crows Nest bar and a satellite bar in the rink from noon until the last game of the day on both Friday and Saturday.
Special event—Beyond Mental Health and Towards Mental Thriving:
- Saturday, April 5, 12–1:30 pm
- Archie Browning Arena—Upper Lounge
Guests are encouraged to attend a powerful talk led by Julie-Anne Richards, a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Julie-Anne will share valuable tools for optimizing mental wellness and tackling post-traumatic growth—an often-overlooked but powerful outcome of effectively treated PTSI. This informal talk is an opportunity to learn strategies to not just cope but thrive in the face of the unique challenges that first responders face.
Fire Chief Furlot adds, "Our first responders need more than just physical support; they need mental health tools and the space to address the invisible wounds of this profession. This event, with its speakers and wellness booths, is a step in that direction, giving our firefighters and their families the support they deserve."
Firefighters invite individuals and families from the region to come out and cheer for their local fire departments in this fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Along with the exciting hockey action, there will be mental health booths and special speakers throughout the event offering resources to support the wellness of first responders.
All tournament events are open to the public and free of charge. A detailed game schedule is online at Esquimalt.ca/events.
Honoring the legacies of Ken & Forrest:
Ken Gill and Forrest Owens are remembered not just for their heroics in the field, but for their dedication to supporting their colleagues and advocating for mental health awareness. As you watch the games and interact with the booths, take a moment to reflect on their legacy and the sacrifices made by all first responders.
Donations raised during the tournament will support important charities chosen by the participating fire departments. These funds help support both firefighters and the communities they serve, continuing the important work Ken and Forrest started.
The community is invited to come together, celebrate the legacy of two incredible first responders, and raise awareness for mental health in the fire service. Bring your family, cheer for your favorite team, and join in the collective efforts to thrive beyond mental health.
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Contact
Tara Zajac, Manager of Communications
Tara.zajac@esquimalt.ca
250-414-7122
