MIDDLEBURY, Vt. (WCAX) - The Middlebury men’s ice hockey team is combining its season opener with a community service effort, asking fans to bring canned goods and winter clothing to Friday’s game against Tufts.

The Panthers will host theme nights at the rink this year, ranging from skating with players to student section challenges. The first event tackles food insecurity as the holiday season approaches.

“I think the goal is we want to bridge the gap between athletes and non-athletes. I think the rink is a place for community, and it really could bring people together,” said Dante Palombo, a junior on the team.

Throughout the fall, the team has been helping the Charter House Coalition, a Middlebury-based nonprofit that provides shelter and meals to people struggling with homelessness

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