The Sharks Made the Playoffs, So Grow Out That Beard

The San Jose Sharks have earned a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season -- which means things are about to get hairy.

The team's first game is Thursday against the St. Louis Blues, but the organization is offering a challenge to fans before the first puck drops.

The team is encouraging their fans to participate in a beard-a-thon, a superstition-turned-fundraiser to raise money for charity. Players stop shaving once they make the playoffs and continue to avoid shaving until they are eliminated or win the Stanley Cup.

Team officials say the superstition is believed to have started in the 1980s with the New York Islanders. Fans are encouraged to join in on the tradition by either participating in the beard-growing event or by pledging a donation to support their friends or favorite team member. The donations go to the Sharks Foundation, which gives back to the community through youth and community programs, including a literacy program that touched more than 25,000 students this year.

Team officials said last season's beard-a-thon brought in more than $20,000 with more than 600 fans participating. Those who wish to participate can sign up or make a pledge at www.beardathon.com/sharks.

--Bay City News

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