The holiday spirit took over the TD Place arena in Ottawa this past weekend as the Ottawa 67's hosted their annual and much-anticipated Teddy Bear Toss game. The beloved tradition, now in its 62nd year, once again transformed the hockey rink into a sea of plush toys, all destined for children in need across the region.
A Flurry of Fur on Ice
The key moment of the game arrived when a young Ottawa 67's fan, whose image was captured by CTV News photographer Katelyn Wilson, helped collect the avalanche of donated stuffed animals. The event took place on Sunday, December 8, 2024, marking a highlight of the community's festive calendar. Fans hold onto their new, plush toys throughout the game, waiting for the 67's to score their first goal. When the puck finally hits the net, thousands of teddy bears, stuffed animals, and other plush toys come raining down onto the ice in a heartwarming spectacle.
More Than Just a Game
This event is far more than a unique hockey tradition; it is a massive charitable drive. All stuffed animals collected are gathered by volunteers, like the young fan pictured, and donated to various local charities, hospitals, and social service agencies. These toys are then distributed to children during the holiday season, bringing comfort and joy to families facing difficult circumstances. The Teddy Bear Toss exemplifies how sports can serve as a powerful force for community good, uniting fans of all ages behind a shared cause of generosity.
A Cherished Ottawa Tradition
The Ottawa 67's Teddy Bear Toss has become an ingrained part of the city's holiday season. It draws families and hockey enthusiasts alike, who participate not just for the love of the game but for the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause. The sight of the ice completely covered in colorful plush toys is a powerful visual representation of the community's collective heart. Events like this reinforce the role of junior hockey teams as pillars within their cities, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose that extends well beyond the final buzzer.
While the final tally of stuffed animals collected from the 2024 event was not immediately disclosed, the impact is measured in the smiles it creates. The tradition continues to be a resounding success, proving that sometimes the most memorable moments in sports are not about the score, but about the shared experience of giving back.
