In return for a non-perishable food item, local children got the chance to skate hand-in-hand with players of the men’s and women’s hockey teams at the annual Skate With the Polar Bears food drive.

Kids ranging from elementary schoolers to middle schoolers laced up their boots and put on the helmets to take to the ice. Some even collected autographs from the players they cheer on during weekend home games. The players donated all the collected food to the local food bank.

Terry Meagher, head coach of the men’s team, said that the event dates back more than 30 years. This year, he added, the attendance was much higher than in previous years.