STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-January 22, 2026-A friendly rivalry takes center ice this winter as local first responders and mountain first responders go head-to-head in the First Responders Showdown, a high-energy, family-friendly community hockey event benefiting two meaningful local causes.
The showcase game takes place Saturday, January 31 at 7 pm at Howelsen Ice Arena, bringing together Routt County First Responders and the Steamboat Ski Patrol in a spirited, good-natured hockey competition celebrating teamwork, local pride, and community investment.
Tickets are $10 for general admission, with proceeds split evenly: 50 percent supporting the Second Sheet of Ice at Howelsen Ice Arena and 50 percent benefiting the Routt First Responders Foundation Memorial Scholarship, which honors fallen first responders and supports local students pursuing careers in public safety.
“This is about more than hockey,” said Lt. Devon Borvansky of Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue. “It’s a chance to bring the community together, highlight the people who serve it every day, and raise money for projects that directly benefit Steamboat Springs.”
Designed as an “ABC-style” showcase game, the evening will feature an emcee and announcer, music, spotlight introductions, intermission fan games, raffle drawings, and sponsor shoutouts throughout the night. Fans can also expect opportunities to meet first responders, take photos with gear and apparatus, and participate in interactive on-ice contests.
The event is expected to draw hundreds of spectators, with every dollar raised staying in the Yampa Valley. Funds will directly support improvements to community recreation through the Second Ice Sheet project and invest in the future of public safety through local scholarship support.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses, with simple, accessible packages designed to maximize community impact while keeping participation easy.
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Contact
Email Devon Borvansky, Lieutenant, Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue, or call 970-879-7170
Email Michael Lane, Marketing & Communications Manager, or call 970-871-8220
Email Emily Hines, Marketing & Communications Supervisor, or call 970-871-7031