"The players are really role models to the students," said CEO of The Wooden Floor, Dawn S. Reese. "In this two-hour opportunity of time spent with them, it changes the children. The players have a moment here where they are truly making a difference."
As a first-time attendee at the annual event, Manson was as excited as the students to be there. He not only helped Miguel pick out some clothes for his soccer season, but most importantly, he talked with the high school sophomore about working hard and dreaming big, as Miguel has aspirations to play collegiate soccer.
"It's such an important part of life, I think, being able to give back," Manson said. "It's something our ownership and this organization have taken very seriously. They've been doing a great job with it, and I've been very happy and extremely grateful to be a part of it. It's great to give back, especially at this time of year, it works out so well."
Silfverberg echoed Manson's sentiments about how being able to give gifts and time to the students in a one-on-one setting creates a more real experience.
"You see the smiles it brings to all of the kids, and you can't help but smile too," Silfverberg said. "It's a nice way to help people who need it, and to be able to do it in person, I think that's special because you really get to be a part of it."
This is the 10th consecutive year the Ducks have teamed up with The Wooden Floor to provide this experience for their students who are in need.
"We are so fortunate to work with the Anaheim Ducks over these 10 years," Reese said. "The kids often talk about how they can one day do the same and give back. So when I think about that legacy over the 10 years and how many children that's impacted through these experiences here, that's a pretty big impact that the Ducks and the Anaheim Ducks Foundation have made on children."