Kids played ball hockey, climbed into a police tactical vehicle, and escaped from a ‘burning’ bouncy castle at the Const. Rick O’Brien Joint Forces Jamboree held on Saturday in Maple Ridge.
“It was fantastic, we had such a great day,” said event organizer Nicole O’Brien.
The annual event remembers O’Brien. The father of six had worked as an education assistant in the school system, and as a youth worker supporting at-risk young people. When he became a police officer, he talked to his wife Nicole O’Brien about the need for police to interact with youth during non-crisis situations, to form relationships. He loved sports, and thought a ball hockey tournament would be the right event.
After he died in the line of duty in September 2023, his wife brought his dream to life as a memorial event. Nicole is the founder of the Joint Forces Foundation and organizer of the event.
“I know Rick was there with us, and smiling that big smile of his,” she said.
The Jamboree saw kids, police officers, firefighters, and other emergency responders play ball hockey games.
There was also the Kids’ Zone with games, inflatable buildings, and more. There was a First Responder Zone where kids could meet the Emergency Response Team and check out their tactical gear, climb into a Fisheries and Oceans patrol boat, and get fingerprinted at the forensics booth.
Kids were able to engage with the people behind the badges.
“My heart felt very full that day,” said O’Brien.“Seeing the youth with smiles and laughing – that’s what it’s all about for me.”
There were food trucks, prize draws, a silent auction and more.
Cameron Rowley, a Grade 12 student from Thomas Haney secondary, was the recipient of one of two bursaries for $1,100 given out by the foundation. He plans to study psychology at the University of Victoria. The other bursary will go to a student in Chilliwack, where Rick O’Brien also worked.
Nicole explained the award is not just for academic achievement.
“We’re looking for kids who have overcome obstacles, who give back to their community, and who show leadership,” she said.
The Guns N’ Hoses Game is one of the day’s big events, featuring a high-energy ball hockey showdown of police vs. firefighters. The firefighters got the win.
Nicole said she is already planning the fourth annual event, in May of 2027.