General Tanner Shoemaker - Assistant AD of Media Relations and NIL

Inside the Sooner - Four Years of Tossing Teddies at USAO

Chickasha, Okla. – The holiday season is always a great time for giving, and at USAO, there is a tradition like few others. Over the last four years, in early December, the Drovers have hosted their annual Teddy Bear Toss game, in which fans are encouraged to bring a new stuffed animal to donate to a charitable cause. 

USAO’s Teddy Bear Toss has become a fan-favorite event, and HUNDREDS of stuffed animals and other new toys have been donated over the last four years. As an additional incentive, all fans who donate get into the games for FREE.

At halftime of the women’s basketball game, fans loosen up their arms and chuck their teddies onto the court, where the donations are then collected and handed over to the local Salvation Army. The Salvation Army of Grady and Caddo Counties uses the donations for its Angel Tree program, which serves over 300 children every year.

“Seeing the fieldhouse overflow with teddy bears reminds me once again how special this community truly is. Our annual Teddy Bear Toss is a fun tradition when Drovers and neighbors come together to share joy and generosity. I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of support that will help the Salvation Army bring holiday cheer to so many children and families this season.” Says USAO President Dr. Kayla Hale.