Some big, strong, tough hockey players would like nothing more than a whole bunch of teddy bears.
The Nanaimo Clippers are holding their annual teddy bear toss this Friday (Dec. 11) during their game against the Merritt Centennials at Frank Crane Arena.
Fans who come to the rink are encouraged to bring a new plush toy, then throw it on the ice when the Clippers score their first goal of the game.
It might not take long – the Clippers are the B.C. Hockey League’s second-highest-scoring team while the Centennials are allowing the second-most goals per game.
Clippers star forward Sheldon Rempal, who has a league-best 34 goals on the year, is the odds-on favourite to score the teddy bear goal, but a lot of his teammates would also love to be the first one to score on Friday.
“That would be awesome to score the goal. Hopefully that can happen,” said Matt Hoover, third in the league in goals with 24. “But more importantly, we need to come out with a win here and keep rolling.”
All the toys will be donated to the Great Nanaimo Toy Drive. Teddy bears will be available for purchase at the arena that night for $5.
GAME ON … The Clips and Cents face off Friday at 7 p.m. The Clippers are home again the next night against the West Kelowna Warriors in a 6 p.m. start.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com