PRESCOTT VALLEY, Ariz. – For the fifth straight year, the Arizona Sundogs and McWhite’s North American Van Lines made the Holiday season brighter for 40 less-fortunate boys and girls on Tuesday, donating toys and Sundogs tickets and merchandise to participating children.

Team mascot Burnie led a behind-the-scenes tour of Tim’s Toyota Center in which attendees got a close look at the Zambonis and ice surface and had the opportunity to sound the Sundogs’ goal horn.

The tour ended in the Arizona Sundogs dressing room where players surprised the children with toy trucks and teddy bears.

“This is my third season doing this and all the guys really enjoy it,” said Sundogs alternate captain Kyle Hood. “When the kids walk in the dressing room there’s a pretty big smile on their faces and that in turn puts a smile on our faces.”

During their time in the dressing room, children got to talk with the players, try on hockey equipment, pose for photos and get autographs.

“It’s good for the kids and it’s good for us to be able to give back to the community,” added team captain Tyler Butler.

As part of the annual event, each child also received a Sundogs jersey, hat and rally towel as well as two tickets to this Saturday’s home game against the Rapid City Rush.

Said Ed Lepordo, owner of McWhite’s North American Van Lines, “This is the fifth year we’ve put this event on and each year is as fulfilling as the last. We work with the Prescott and Prescott Valley Police Departments to give less-fortunate children an opportunity they otherwise wouldn’t receive and we’re going to continue to do so for many years to come.”