Peel Regional Police Constable Hardeep Kang’s dedication to both policing and hockey continues to be celebrated through the ninth annual Hardeep Kang Memorial Hockey Tournament, scheduled for April 25th to 26th at the CAA Centre in Brampton.
Despite being diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor in October 2011, Kang persevered in his roles as a police officer and an avid hockey player within the Peel Regional Police hockey league. His commitment to service and passion for the sport inspired the creation of the annual tournament in his memory following his passing in 2013 at the age of 25.
Constable Taryn Young, Peel police charity co-ordinator, highlighted the tournament’s significance, stating, “Last year, they raised over $12,000 for Cops for Cancer.” The tournament not only honors Kang’s legacy but also commemorates other fallen officers, including Constable Andy Mcdonald, Sergeant Steve Martin, Constable Michele Marlborough, and Mackenzie Sweet.
Constable Marlborough, who passed away in September 2022 from breast cancer, shared Kang’s love for hockey and made a lasting impact on her colleagues.
Since its inception in 2014, the tournament has raised over $150,000 for Cops for Cancer, supporting pediatric cancer awareness and research.
This year’s tournament, expected to draw approximately 450 first responders, offers an opportunity for the community to show support and contribute to the cause. The event’s website describes Kang as courageous and embodies his determination to overcome cancer, emphasizing the collective effort to honor his memory and those lost prematurely to the disease.
The Hardeep Kang Memorial Tournament serves as a testament to Kang’s resilience and unwavering spirit, inspiring participants to continue the fight against cancer in his name and in memory of others lost too soon.