Anaheim Ducks Named Joshua Conger 21st Duck

The 16-year-old founder of a local nonprofit received the honor for his years of charitable toy distribution.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Hockey

Anaheim Ducks Named Joshua Conger 21st Duck

The Anaheim Ducks have named 16-year-old philanthropist Joshua Conger the 21st Duck. Conger, who founded the nonprofit Joshua's Joyful Giving, was recognized for his extensive work supporting children in Southern California.

Why it matters

This recognition honors Conger for his dedication to community service, specifically his multi-year efforts providing comfort items to pediatric patients. It highlights the organizations commitment to local youth advocates who make a tangible impact on the lives of others.

Conger has led the distribution of over 10,000 toys, 3,000 bedside bags, and 300 autism backpacks since 2019. The nonprofit also expanded its reach in 2024 by launching the Adopt a Local Family initiative.

The players

Joshua Conger

He is the 16-year-old founder of Joshua's Joyful Giving, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting pediatric patients.

Joel Quenneville

He is the head coach of the Anaheim Ducks who presented the honor and a custom jersey to Conger.

Anaheim Ducks

This is a professional NHL team based in Anaheim that competes in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference.

Florida Panthers

This is a professional NHL team based in Sunrise, Florida, that will face the Ducks during the home opener.

The details

Head coach Joel Quenneville invited Conger to a team practice to present him with a custom jersey and the official title. Conger will continue his involvement with the organization during the upcoming home opener against the Florida Panthers at the Honda Center.

Conger began collecting toys for pediatric patients in 2019.
The nonprofit launched the Adopt a Local Family initiative in 2024.
The team officially announced Conger as the 21st Duck on October 1, 2026.
Conger will join the Ducks at their home opener on October 4, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This induction reinforces the long-standing community outreach tradition of the 21st Duck program within the franchise. It sets a tone of civic engagement for the upcoming season as the team prepares for their home opener at the Honda Center.

The home opener serves as the inaugural event for Conger in his role as the 21st Duck. This official recognition elevates the visibility of his nonprofit initiatives for potential donors and volunteers within the local area.

The takeaway

The recognition of a youth advocate emphasizes that commitment to community support starts with individual action. Readers can implement this spirit of service by identifying local needs and starting small initiatives that scale over time.