The Adirondack Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, is rooting for its fans to break its all-time Teddy Bear Toss record when the team takes on the Worcester Railers (New York Islanders) at Cool Insuring Arena on Saturday, Dec. 16. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the puck dropping at 7 p.m.
Fans are encouraged to bring a new, unused teddy bear (or any stuffed animal) and hurl it onto the ice after the Thunder’s first goal against the Railers. Fans tossed more than 2,800 stuffed animals on the ice last year, the current record, which were then distributed as gifts for children and residents of area nursing homes and care facilities through the Salvation Army.
“I am always humbled by our fans and incredibly proud of their generosity. In 2021 our fans brought nearly 2,200 bears and then topped that in 2022. I am hoping that we can crack the 3,000-mark this year,” said Adirondack Thunder President Jeff Mead about the latest iterations of the seven-year tradition. “The Greater Glens Falls Salvation Army is such a vital organization to spread holiday joy and we are honored to partner with them each year.”
The in-game toss follows a 1 p.m. showdown between firefighters from the Saratoga Springs Fire Department and Worcester Fire Department. It is the first time the Thunder have hosted two teams of emergency responders for on-ice action.
“The Adirondack Thunder has a very special place in its heart, as an organization, for firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical workers. These people are heroes,” Mead said. “We hope that this is just the first in a long series of games where we can say thank you on a whole new level.”
Beyond the firefighter game and the toss, Saratoga Eagle is presenting $4 Bud Light specials during the game.
Thunder holiday 4-packs including a Thunder hat, Sky Zone Jump pass and a Kingpins Bowling pass are now available for just $79. Holiday packs are on sale through Dec. 31 or while supplies last.