New Rochelle Firefighters Take To The Ice In Battle For A Good Cause

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Firefighters at departments across the Hudson Valley are ready to have each others' backs at a moment's notice and put their lives on the line wherever and whenever their fellow firefighters need them.

But that kinship was momentarily forgotten when firefighters from New Rochelle and Yonkers took to the ice with the intent to destroy their opponents. Despite the competitive drive behind the rivalry, the competition was all in good fun and the results will be felt long after the final score on the scoreboard has been forgotten.

On Wednesday, at Station 1 on Harrison St., New Rochelle Firefighters Local 273 presented a check to Elise Retallick from the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, thanks to the funds raised during their 2nd Annual Captain Andy DiMaggio Charity Hockey Game.

The fierce match between the New Rochelle and Yonkers Fire Departments, supported by Yonkers Firefighters Local 628, Yonkers Uniformed Fire Officers Association and many local businesses, was a great success, raising over $20,000.

The proceeds will aid the foundation in providing mortgage-free smart homes to catastrophically injured veterans and first responders, as well as mortgage payoffs to the families of fallen heroes with young children.

In 2021 alone, Tunnel to Towers provided over 200 mortgage-free homes to deserving individuals and families.

"We are grateful for the incredible generosity and community spirit that made this event possible, and we're already looking forward to making next year's event even bigger and better," New Rochelle Firefighters Local 273 said.

Captain Andy DiMaggio, a beloved member of the New Rochelle Fire Department, tragically passed away from COVID-19 in 2020. He joined the department in 1989 and served with distinction for 31 years. Rising to the rank of lieutenant in 2005 and captain in 2012, DiMaggio was also the training officer for the department, renowned for his expertise and teaching abilities. His dedication extended to the Westchester County Career Chief's Fire Academy, where he trained countless new recruits.

Organizers of the charity game said that DiMaggio’s legacy continues to inspire the community and their efforts in hosting the annual charity event.