RAPID CITY, S.D. — Holiday cheer filled The Monument Ice Arena on Saturday, December 13, as fans of the Rapid City Rush came together for the team’s annual Teddy Bear Toss, transforming an exciting night of hockey into a powerful act of community generosity.

The event, held during the Rush’s matchup against the Allen Americans, drew a packed crowd eager to take part in one of the season’s most anticipated traditions. Fans arrived carrying teddy bears and other stuffed animals, waiting for the Rush’s first goal of the night. When forward Brett Davis scored the opening goal, the celebration erupted as thousands of plush toys rained down onto the ice from the stands.

What followed was a coordinated effort involving the Rapid City Police Department, Rush cheerleaders, team officials, and additional volunteers, who quickly gathered the stuffed animals from the ice. The toys were loaded into rolling bins and trucks, allowing the game to continue while ensuring the donations were safely collected.

The generosity extended beyond the rink. On Monday, December 15, all of the stuffed animals collected during the game were delivered to the pediatric unit at Monument Health in Rapid City. Hospital staff welcomed the donation, which will help bring comfort and joy to children receiving medical care during the holiday season.

Now in its 18th year, the Rush’s Teddy Bear Toss has grown into one of the organization’s most meaningful annual traditions. Each season, the event highlights the strong connection between the team and the community, with fans once again donating thousands of bears and stuffed animals—surpassing last year’s totals and reinforcing the event’s continued growth.

Team officials and organizers credit the success of the Teddy Bear Toss to the overwhelming generosity of “Rush Nation,” noting that the tradition has become a cornerstone of the team’s holiday outreach efforts.

Whether experienced in the stands, on the ice, or in hospital hallways, the impact of this year’s Teddy Bear Toss will be felt long after the final horn, delivering warmth, smiles, and holiday cheer to those who need it most.

Above Video Courtesy Of Destyn Humann