BRUNSWICK — The Bowdoin College men’s and women’s ice hockey teams will host their annual “Skate with the Polar Bears” food drive Sunday from noon to 2 p.m. at Watson Arena.

Admission to the open skate is one non-perishable food item or paper product to be donated to the local food bank. The free skate is open to all ages. Children are asked to bring a protective helmet.

“The holiday season is when food banks need our help the most,” sais men’s ice hockey head coach Terry Meagher. “The demands of the season dwindle their supplies and this is a great way for us to help them replenish.”

“This is always been a fun event, dating back to my time as a Bowdoin student,” added women’s head coach Marissa O’Neil. “Not only is it for a great cause, but it’s exciting to see our youngest fans interact with their favorite players.”

Both teams are off to outstanding starts in the 2012-13 campaign, including twogame sweeps of Colby last weekend.

The women’s team is currently 3-1 and will host Holy Cross tonight at 7 p.m. and Norwich on Saturday at 4 p.m.

The men’s team is ranked eighth in the lastest USCHO.com Division III poll and is 7-0-1. They will be on the road at Tufts tonight at 7 p.m. and at Conn. College Saturday at 3 p.m.