CASTLETON, Vt. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's and women's hockey teams are continuing their long-running traditions of community support with the men hosting their annual Teddy Bear Toss, following it up with the women's team hosting its annual Sock Toss.
 
This year's events are being held in partnership with the Rutland County Parent-Child Center, with all donations of winter socks and teddy bears going to the local organization for distribution to families in need around Rutland County.
 
On the men's side, the Spartans are set to host their 15th annual Teddy Bear Toss on December 2 against Saint Michael's College at Spartan Arena with a 7 p.m. puck drop. All fans bringing at least one new stuffed animal to the event will gain free admission to the contest. Fans are encouraged to throw the stuffed animals onto the ice when the Spartans score their first goal of the contest

The fourth iteration of the Spartan women's hockey team's Sock Toss is on Saturday, December 6, at 3 p.m. when the team hosts SUNY Morrisville at Spartan Arena. All fans bringing at least one pair of new winter socks—child or adult sized—will gain free admission to the contest. RCPCC is also accepting donations of new winter gloves and mittens in addition to socks for entrance to the event. Fans are encouraged to throw the socks or other cold-weather items onto the ice when the Spartans score their first goal of the contest.