LOWELL — Wellpoint partnered with UMass Lowell to host First Responder Appreciation Night at the Tsongas Center on Saturday, January 12, 2025. The event offered free admission to all first responders and their families for the hockey match between the UMass Lowell River Hawks and the University of Maine Black Bears.
The event marked the first collaboration between Wellpoint and UMass Lowell and attracted more than 300 first responders and over 4,000 attendees.
David Morales, the general manager of Wellpoint, explained that the event was held to honor the commitment of first responders who “take care of our families, our communities, keep us safe, and always show up when we need them.” Wellpoint, as the largest health benefits plan for state employees, retirees and municipal employees insured through the Group Insurance Commission (GIC), and counts many first responders, including state police troopers, local police, firefighters, and veterans among its members.
Tim Carroll, vice president (District 4) of The Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts, an avid hockey fan who grew up playing the game and continues to play to this day, attended the game Saturday.
“We’re out here to celebrate the UMass hockey team with our partner Wellpoint, it’s fantastic, they do a lot for the fire service and the community,” said Carroll. “I believe there is up to 300 first responders out here tonight and I know I’ve got some of my local guys in the stands, I saw them, and I’ve got other guys with us from the Professional Firefighters of Massachusetts.”
Brian Williams, the president of the State Police Association of Massachusetts and a member of Wellpoint, attended the game with his wife and two sons after Morales and his team at Wellpoint reached out to his association with an invitation.
“It’s the best health plan that’s offered to us, and I think it’s the best one around. I know a majority of our members are on Wellpoint, and a lot of our friends in local law enforcement and firefighting are all on the same plan,” said Williams. “We appreciate the support from Dave and his team over at Wellpoint. They have been tremendous supporters of the state police association, law enforcement, and firefighters across the Commonwealth, and we just really appreciate everything they do for us.”
The event included multiple attractions, such as an arcade night hosted by Wamesit Lanes, a wine tasting session by Archer Roose, and a special Pucks & Paws Night, allowing vaccinated dogs to accompany their owners to the game.
The doors opened at 5 p.m. with the hockey game starting at 6:05 p.m. The first 300 young fans received gift cards, and for convenience, pre-paid parking was offered at the Hall Street Garage located just beyond the Tsongas Center.
