There will be no shortage of bears in Clare Drake Arena on Friday night. The twist? They will be the plush variety, as Golden Bears Hockey, in partnership with the University Athletics Board, will be hosting their first-ever Teddy Bear Toss. 

All fans and UofA students are encouraged to bring teddy bears or stuffed animals to the rink on Friday, with all stuffed animals being donated to the Norwood Child and Family Resource Centre. A tradition that originated in Kamloops in the early 90's, Friday will mark the first Teddy Bear Toss at Clare Drake Arena. 

"We recognize that every child that celebrates the holidays deserve to wake up with a present underneath the tree," said Miranda Risling, President of the University Athletics Board and a member of the Pandas Rugby team. "We would like to do our part in making that happen for kids around Edmonton." 

The Norwood Child and Family Resource Centre —  located just north of Commonwealth Stadium — is a non-profit that empowers vulnerable families in Edmonton through programs that support child development, family well-being, and connection to community. Norwood Centre has been a gathering place for Edmonton families for more than 60 years, where they work with children, caregivers, and other family members to support optimal child development, strengthen healthy relationships and well-being, break cycles of adversity, and empower people to successfully navigate change and life challenges. 

The first 150 fans needing teddy bears on Friday night will be given one; with additional bears available for purchase on-site for just $5, with all proceeds going to the Norwood Centre. Fans are encouraged to bring stuffed animals in good condition, and place each animal in a plastic bag before tossing it on the ice (bags will be available on game day). When the Golden Bears score their first goal, send those stuffed animals over the glass!

The Golden Bears enter this weekend's series against Saskatchewan sporting a conference-best 11-1-0 record, having won four-straight. The Bears earned a pair of 5-2 wins over the Huskies on October 18th and 19th at Clare Drake Arena. In what should be a high-octane series, the Bears and Huskies feature three of the top four scorers, and seven of the top 10 in Canada West.