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As part of the Chargers Cares initiative, teams are asked to select a charity/organization/cause that they wish to support for the season; the men’s basketball team has selected the toy drive every year.

“We are extremely proud to be part of the toy drive. It carries a great deal of importance as it fosters a sense of unity, care, and compassion in our community,” said Manager, Athletics and Student Life, Scot Cuachon. “The holidays can be a particularly difficult time for many people, and these efforts create a ripple effect encouraging others to get involved, support each other, make an impact that strengthens the fabric of our community.”

Toy donations are accepted during all Chargers home games in November and bins are placed at libraries on both campuses. On the day of the Toy Drive, there’s a buzz of excitement and energy as the team and staff load onto the bus, with toys in hand to drop off at Mayfair Mall.

“This is my fourth year being part of the toy drive and I love the opportunity to help out in the community,” said men’s basketball captain, Eric Lees. “The team and I look forward to this day every year. We all hop on the bus, share a few laughs and jokes, then deliver all the awesome toys our fans have donated.”

The athletes drop off the hundreds of toys collected then get right to work helping load the truck with all the incredible donations from the community. After the drive has ended, the team is still hard at work unloading and sorting the pounds of toys at the warehouse.

“When we unload the truck, we make an efficient factory line and shuffle the toys into the warehouse,” added Lees. “Usually, we have to take a few breaks; not because we're tired, but because we're looking at how awesome some of these toys are! After the unloading, we finish at the Sidney Bakery for some well-earned delicious donuts.”

The toy drive is an opportunity for the Camosun Chargers to show up for community and serve as a reminder that small acts can make a difference in the lives of children and families who may not be as fortunate.

This year’s toy drive is even more meaningful to the community as we all honour the legacy of the late Dylan Willows, whose vision and dedication helped to establish the toy drive.

“Dylan was a remarkable example of what it means to be a true community leader, and supporting this initiative allows us to carry forward his commitment to helping others and making a positive impact,” added Cuachon. “The sense of camaraderie and community is unmatched, and one that reminds us that together is the way forward.”

The Camosun Chargers Athletics program currently fields teams in basketball and volleyball. Since joining the Canadian Collegiate Athletics Association (CCAA) and PACWEST conferences in 1994, the Chargers have competed in over 100 national and provincial championships with over 50 medal winning finishes.