28,815 Teddy Bears Disrupt Hockey Game

Most major sporting events frown on the idea of fan disruptions. Running out onto the field of play will probably get you arrested, as will throwing things onto the field. I use the word probably because there are some places, at just the right moment, where at least throwing things is not only acceptable, but encouraged. The Teddy Bear Toss the other night in Calgary would be one of those times.

From USA Today:

The Western Hockey League’s Calgary Hitmen saw their game held up for a full 40 minutes on Sunday as fans participated in the team’s annual Teddy Bear Toss.

For the last 21 years, the Toss has been a staple for the Hitmen, and like all good things, it seems to get better every year. Since its inaugural session in 1995, more than 300,000 new friends have been collected and donated to 50 local charities.

The Toss starts once Calgary scores for the first time. A Jordy Stallard goal at 2:41 of the second period kicked things off.

It sure looks like more fun than when Red Wings fans throw an octopus or ten.