The Edmonton Oil Kings hockey team broke their Teddy Bear Toss record. The fans donated almost 14 000 stuffed animals for children in need.
The Kings played against the Kamloops Blazers. They were down 0-2 at the near end of the second period.
Game of records
In the end the Oil Kings lost 3-2, but the night was highlighted by something more important. The fans broke two records for the team.
The first one was the highest ever attendance. A total of 18 102 people went to the game.
Then they broke the team record for the largest ever Teddy Bear Toss. Fans donated a total of 13 942 stuffed animals.
All of the toys went to the 630 CHED Santas Anonymous. This week all of the toys will be delivered. The goal is to have the toys reach their recipients in time for Christmas.
The team players will also help the charity organization. Last year they wore special Teddy Bear Toss jerseys. They were sold on an auction and raised almost $20 000. This year the players again rocked special jerseys which will soon be auctioned off, too.
“It was wonderful support for what is a tremendous event,” said Head Coach Steve Hamilton. “To walk out for puck drop in front of a full house and people ready to throw bears is wonderful. It’s such a good cause and the support that the community rallies up behind causes like that, you would expect no less from Edmonton fans. They just consistently step up to every opportunity, which shows why they’re first class and among the best in the world. We are so very fortunate to play in front of those kinds of people.”
