MILTON, Mass. - On November 22, 2014, the Curry College Hockey Team put on its First Annual Teddy Bear Toss to benefit children at the Dana Farber Children's Hospital Cancer Center.

After Curry's first goal of the game, fans with teddy bears and stuffed animals threw them on the ice for the Curry players to collect and then donate to sick children who are in the hospital over the holidays.

The Teddy Bear Toss idea came directly from the players with the goals of providing joy and a memorable holiday season for children in the hospital. They also wanted to create an opportunity to connect the Curry College community including Athletics, the student body, faculty and staff. Additionally, they wanted to connect the Curry Hockey team and Milton community in support of this cause.

"I am extremely proud of Jake Heisinger for initiating this great idea and for organizing his teammates," said Head Coach TJ Manastersky. "Over the summer, Jake brought forward his desire to do something for children who are in the hospital over the holidays. From that vision the Teddy Bear Toss idea was born. Jake formed the "Teddy Bear Committee" with teammates Jordan Reed, Tyler Vankleef, and Brett Sinclair. These young men did a tremendous job at spreading the word and working out the logistics of the event."

Student Activities, the Class of 2017, and the Athletics Department were integral to the success of the event. "We are very grateful for the support of so many people and groups on campus and in the Milton community that were excited to be a part of such a unique and special event," said Manastersky.

The teddy bears and stuffed animals will be given out to children at the Dana Farber Children's Hospital Winter Festival on December 7.

"The Teddy Bear Toss was a huge success for both the hockey program and the school. The entire team was thrilled with the amount of support from everyone and we can't wait to put some smiles on kids' faces this holiday season." – Jake Heisinger

Click HERE to watch a video of the Teddy Bear Toss on Facebook