Utica College To Host Teddy Bear Toss

Utica, NY (WIBX) - Fans don't usually get to throw stuff at Utica College's hockey players, but for one night, the team will make an exception.

This Saturday, the nationally-ranked No. 9 Utica College men's hockey team hosts its seventh annual "New York Sash Teddy Bear Toss," at the Utica Memorial Auditorium. The Pioneers are taking on Newport, Rhode Island's Salve Regina Seahawks for the first time.

Fans who bring in a new stuffed animal get in free. Once the Pioneers score their first goal, fans can throw their toys onto the ice for the players to collect.

In the six years the College has hosted the Teddy Bear Toss, they have won four contests and collected more than 10,000 stuffed animals for local charities throughout the Mohawk Valley.

The puck drops at 7 p.m., but fans are encouraged to come early to get an available seat.