Anaheim Ducks Turn Rink Into Classroom For SoCal Students

ANAHEIM (CBSLA.com) — The Anaheim Ducks turned the Honda Center into a giant classroom Tuesday for an award-winning educational program that encouraged more than 16,000 students from across Southern California to engage and explore science, technology, engineering and math.

The boys and girls from more than 160 elementary schools from as far away as the High Desert and Imperial Valley gathered at the arena for the 16th annual First Flight Field Trip.

"The great thing about this event is that the kids already like the Ducks and love the sport. Now, you incorporate electrons, electricity and science. They love it," said teacher Francisco Sandoval.

This year's theme was "Light the Lamp," where students were asked to help design a better goal light for hockey.

The one-of-a-kind educational field trip was broken into two parts. The "Playground" portion allowed children to explore interactive exhibits. The "Classroom" portion featured lessons led by the entire hockey team on the ice.

"We were learning about the electricity, how it moves, the currents and all that stuff," student Albert Flores said.

"The vast majority of the kids here have never been to the Honda Center or even seen hockey played. So, we're introducing them to the sport for the first time in what we call non-traditional hockey market," said Anaheim Ducks Fan Development Coordinator Jason Cooper. "Ultimately, we hope they learn something while we're here."

Anaheim Ducks right wing Corey Perry said: "It's been a lot of fun. They're having fun today. They're out of school. They're still learning. At the same time, they get to see us practice and see what we do on a regular basis."