As previously announced, Saturday 18th December is the date that fans of the GalxC Cooling Services Basingstoke Bison look forward to when once again they have the opportunity to “Air the Bears” in what is a well-known event in the world of ice hockey during the Christmas period.
This years “Air the Bear” event is once again in support of and in partnership with Naomi House.
Preparation of Your Bears
Before you arrive at the arena please ensure your bears are:
- New bears only please – (This is to avoid any cases of infection when these wonderful gifts are donated)
- Have a CE label on them.
- Wrap them in plastic or cling film so they don’t cause any issues with the ice.
What is “Air the Bear”?
Air the Bear – also known as the Teddy Bear Toss, is an event where every fan who brings a teddy bear then throws their bear onto the ice following the home sides first goal of the evening.
The current World Record is held by the AHL team Hershey Bears team who in the 2018 season once the first goal was scored saw an amazing 45,650 stuffed toys thrown onto the ice.
When Did the Tradition Begin?
The first Teddy Bear Toss happened on the 5th December 1993 when the WHL team, the Kamloops Blazers introduced the event. The event was the brainwave of the Blazers the Marketing Director, Don Larson and the scorer of the first ever bear toss goal came from the stick of Brad Lukowich.
We look forward to seeing at Saturday’s game versus the Leeds Chiefs when you get the chance to “Air Your Bear” in conjunction with Naomi House.
As well as “Air the Bear” this weekend please do not forget that Saturday is also the second week and final chance for fans of the herd to donate food items in aid of the Basingstoke Food Bank.
Collection point for all donations can be made by placing your food items in the boxes adjacent to the merchandise stand.
How To Support the Food Bank:
Please see below a list of suitable non-perishable items that would be gratefully appreciated:
Christmas cake/pudding
Christmas store cupboard items i.e. Stuffing mix Variety tins/boxes (chocolates, biscuits, nuts, sweets etc)
Tinned food (including Tomatoes, Spaghetti, Ravioli)
Cereals (hot or cold)
Coffee (small jars)
Tea bags
Fruit Juice (UHT)
Tinned Veg
Tinned Fruit
Long Life UHT milk
Toiletries & small Christmas gifts
Christmas Crackers
Any Christmas foodie treats (snacks, cakes, chocs etc.)
We are unable to accept items that need to be stored in the fridge, fresh fruit and vegetables or items containing alcohol.
We thank you in advance for your generosity.
