If you’ve ever watched a figure skating competition, you’ve probably seen it—the moment a skater finishes their performance, and the ice transforms into a sea of plush toys. Fans shower their favorite skaters with love and encouragement through these “tossies,” as they’re affectionately called. Over time, this unique tradition has turned competitions into moments of celebration and connection, creating a playful and personal bond between skaters and their supporters.

But how did this custom begin? Why do skaters end up buried under stuffed animals? And most importantly, what happens to all those plushies once the ice is cleared?

The Origins of the Tossie Tradition

Throwing gifts onto the ice isn’t a new phenomenon—it dates back several decades. Originally, fans would toss flowers, mirroring the bouquets thrown on stage after a ballet or opera performance. It was a way to honor skaters for their artistry and effort—a tradition rooted in admiration.

However, there was a practical issue—flowers and ice don’t mix well. Loose petals, stems, and water from bouquets could create hazards, increasing the risk of stumbles and falls. To address this, event organizers in the 1980s and 1990s began requiring flowers to be wrapped. Over time, stuffed animals gradually replaced flowers as the tossie of choice—plush toys were safer, easier to clean up, and far more fun to collect!

The Rise of the Plushie

With this shift, fans found creative ways to show their support. Plushies began to reflect a skater’s interests, hobbies, or even themes from their performances. The simple act of tossing a toy became a playful, meaningful way to connect with skaters and add a personal touch to the moment of appreciation.

Some of the most memorable tossie moments belong to skaters whose fans took this tradition to a whole new level:

• • The Winnie the Pooh Avalanche: If you’ve watched Yuzuru Hanyu skate, you’ve likely seen the ice instantly covered in hundreds of Winnie the Pooh plushies. The Japanese skater’s love for the character became legendary, and fans embraced it, making Pooh Bears his signature tossie.
  • Evgenia Medvedeva’s Anime-Inspired Gifts: A proud anime fan, Medvedeva has been showered with Sailor Moon plushies and other anime-themed toys. Her fans celebrate both her skating talent and her love for her fandom.

When Tossies Go BIG: The Trend of Giant Plushies on Ice

Recently, fans have taken the tossie tradition to hilarious new heights—literally. Human-sized teddy bears and oversized plush toys are now part of the spectacle, often requiring multiple people to carry them off the ice. Watching young sweepers struggle to drag a five-foot bear away—or even seeing skaters step in to help—adds a lighthearted, chaotic twist to the tradition.

The Unsung Heroes: The Sweepers

While tossies bring joy to skaters and fans alike, a dedicated group ensures competitions run smoothly: the sweepers. Usually young skaters from local clubs, sweepers dash onto the ice after each performance to collect the gifts. Armed with baskets or bags, they work quickly to clear the ice, often showcasing their own skating skills in the process. For these young skaters, being a sweeper is a thrilling experience—they get to share the ice with their idols and sometimes even receive a grateful smile or thank you from their favorite skater.

Regulating the Tossie Game

Though the tradition is beloved, there are rules to keep things organized:

• • At most major competitions, tossies are allowed, but sweepers must swiftly clear the ice to keep the event on schedule.
  • Some events permit tossies but require them to be collected off-ice before being handed to skaters.

Despite occasional restrictions, tossies remain a cherished part of figure skating culture, adding joy and excitement to competitions.

Why Tossies Matter

Beyond the spectacle, tossies carry deeper significance:

• • A symbol of appreciation: Fans use tossies to express their admiration for skaters’ talent and hard work.
  • Acts of generosity: Many skaters donate their plushies to children’s hospitals and charities, giving the tradition an even more meaningful impact.
  • A personal connection: Tossies create a bond between skaters and their fans, reminding athletes that their performances resonate far beyond the ice.

Ultimately, tossies are more than just toys—they’re symbols of connection, admiration, and joy shared between skaters and the fans who cheer them on.

The Role of Tossies in Adult Competitions

While adult skating competitions don’t see the same plushie avalanches as elite events, tossies still play a meaningful role in bringing skaters together. Instead of stuffed animals, practical goodies like candy, lip balm, tissues, and keychains are often exchanged—each accompanied by an encouraging note and a social media handle to stay connected.

Some skaters even create signature tossies that become beloved traditions. Take the coveted Wendy Bears, for example—Wendy hand-knits tiny sweaters onto teddy bears, each marked with the year, making them a cherished keepsake at Adult Nationals.

Why does this tradition thrive in adult skating? Because the adult skating community is still growing, and many of us are outnumbered by kids at our home rinks. Tossies at adult competitions strengthen connections, offering encouragement and camaraderie both on the ice and online—keeping the skating family close between competitions.

The Magic of Tossies

Tossies perfectly reflect what figure skating is all about—not just competition, but community, connection, and celebration. Whether it’s a simple teddy bear or a sea of Winnie the Pooh plushies, these heartfelt gifts remind us that skating is more than a sport—it’s an experience we share.

So next time you’re at a skating competition, bring a plushie, cheer loudly, and maybe—just maybe—your tossie will be the one your favorite skater picks up.

What Do You Think?

I would love to hear your thoughts—If you could pick one plushie for your favorite skater, what would it be? Have you received a cherished tossie? Drop a comment below!