Canes skate with School Safety Patrollers

By Lethbridge Herald on January 22, 2026.

Herald photo by ALexandra noad Lethbridge Hurricanes Owen Berge signs a young Safety Patrollers jersey during the annual AMA School Safety Patrollers program skate at VisitLethbridge.com Arena on Thursday.

By Alexandra Noad

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter- Lethbridge Herald

Every school morning and afternoon, thousands of fifth and sixth graders across the province ensure the safety of their classmates as they participate in the AMA School Safety Patrollers program.

Over 280 patrollers and supervisors from schools in Lethbridge and surrounding area, had the opportunity to skate with the Lethbridge Hurricanes as a way to recognize their service throughout the year.

Allison Purcell from AMA School safety patrols, says this annual event not only shows appreciation for the students but also unites community partners.

“It’s great for us us to be out here to show our School Safety Patrollers that the job they do on the crosswalk is important and it brings together our community partners, such as the Lethbridge Hurricanes to show that they’re heroes on the ice and our patrollers are here on the crosswalk.”

Hurricanes forward Owen Berge was a School Safety Patroller when he was in elementary and says he has fond memories, but also understands the importance of the work they do.

“Those intersections around the school are pretty busy, especially in the mornings and afternoons, so it’s always great when the kids can all contribute to keeping the area safe.”

Lilly Baker, a sixth grader from Raymond Elementary, says being a Student Patroller is rewarding on its own, but having the opportunity to skate with the Hurricanes was the icing on the cake.

“I feel like when you do safety patrol it makes me feel good inside because I’m keeping other kids safe and being out here with all the Hurricanes and getting to skate with them is really cool and fun.”

Berge recognizes how important young fans like Baker are to the organization.

“It’s always good to connect with the kids whenever you can and show appreciation for the support, obviously, they’re a big part of our fan base.”

Cst. Barent Goodrich of the Lethbridge Police Force reminds drivers to be mindful when driving in school zones, especially at the beginning and end of the day, to be mindful of safety patrollers who are wearing hi-vis vests.

“Just me mindful at the start of school and at the end of schooltime to be cognisant that they’re out there doing a good job helping all of our children and people cross the street safely”