The RCMP expects more run-ins with the city’s youth; not because of bad behaviour, but to talk hockey.
The Prince George Cougars and local officers are teaming up. The team is supplying Mounties with Cougars hockey cards for officers to distribute to youth while on patrol.
Superintendent Warren Brown understands most police-youth interactions are negative, whether it be a domestic issue or an arrest. Creating more positive connections was one reason why Cougars Vice-President Andy Beesley and he came up with the idea.
“Even though it’s fun and it’s hockey and it’s cards and so on, we actually think they could be used for the greater good and really to help mend relationships or create new relationships with the RCMP and the youth in this city,” says Beesley.
Brown agrees and believes something as simple as hockey cards can change that relationship.
“This is really just an excellent opportunity to find common ground on something. Again, we live in the north, hockey’s a big sport up here and really it’s just a natural segue into perhaps building that relation with youth,” he says, “If there are youth that are collecting cards and they see us, I’d encourage them to flag us down. If I have that hockey card that somebody needs, I’d certainly be happy to give it to them.”
The cards will be donated to the police free of charge.
There are 25 cards in circulation including 24 players and Rowdy Cat.
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