The Nanaimo Clippers want fans to bring a friend to the game – namely, a teddy bear.
The Clippers are hosting Teddy Bear Toss Night on Saturday (Dec. 7) at Frank Crane Arena when they host the Chilliwack Chiefs in B.C. Hockey League action.
Fans are asked to bring a new plush toy to the game and then throw it on the ice when the Clips score their first goal of the night. The toys will be gathered up and donated to the Great Nanaimo Toy Drive campaign.
It might not be a long wait for that first goal – Nanaimo scored less than five minutes into the first period in its last game, an 8-1 blowout win on Sunday over the Coquitlam Express.
“It helps give us confidence that we can score goals and we can create good chances in the offensive zone,” said Bo Brauer, Clippers forward. “If we keep working hard then hopefully it will carry on as momentum for our next game.”
Devin Brosseau, Clippers alternate captain, said the blowout win gave his team a lift.
“You don’t get many in the season, so it feels good in the room. The guys are really happy,” he said. “But we … know we have to play close hockey in the games that are coming.”
Saturday’s matchup against the Chiefs is the only action for the Clippers this weekend, so it’s easy for the team to find its focus.
“We’re going to practise hard just for that game, so I think the results will come if we bring our work ethic,” Brosseau said.
GAME ON … Saturday’s game between the Clippers and Chiefs starts at 7 p.m. … In this past Sunday's blowout, Brauer and Brosseau each had two goals and an assist, Nick Gushue had a goal and three helpers and Scott Prier had three assists. Other scorers were Brendan Taylor, Eric Margo and Jacob Hanlon. Jayson Argue made 28 saves for the win.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com