Washington Capitals Launch Rink Pass Program to Promote Youth Hockey
In an exciting development for young hockey enthusiasts in the Washington, D.C. area, the Washington Capitals have announced the launch of the Rink Pass program. This initiative, supported by the NHL Industry Growth Fund, is part of Monumental Sports & Entertainment’s broader District of Play initiative. Designed to foster a love for hockey among students, Rink Pass extends the Capitals’ existing Hockey School platform, which introduces the sport to students during their Physical Education classes.
Expanding Opportunities for Young Athletes
The Rink Pass program aims to provide students with the chance to engage with hockey beyond the classroom. Through organized field trips to local ice rinks for skating classes and ball hockey rinks for continued instruction, students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the sport. These outings are not just about learning the game; they also focus on building confidence and skills in a supportive environment.
The Capitals have taken a comprehensive approach to ensure that these experiences are accessible. Transportation to and from the rinks, as well as all necessary equipment, will be provided at no cost to the students. This initiative is particularly important as it removes financial barriers that might otherwise prevent children from participating in sports.
Collaboration with Local Schools
The Rink Pass program is set to run during the 2024-2025 school year, from September through May, and is already garnering interest from local school systems. Participating in the inaugural season are DC Public Schools (DCPS) and Montgomery County Public Schools, with the Capitals working closely with county administrators to select schools for participation.
In its first year, the program anticipates engaging over 1,000 students in skating sessions and ball hockey clinics. This level of participation underscores the Capitals’ commitment to youth sports and their desire to make hockey accessible to a wider audience.
A Special Kickoff Event
To mark the beginning of the Rink Pass program, nearly 200 fifth-grade students from DCPS will participate in a skating event at MedStar Capitals Iceplex on October 24. This event will feature a special address from DCPS Chancellor Dr. Lewis D. Ferebee, who will highlight the importance of physical education and recreational activities in fostering experiential learning opportunities. Such events not only provide students with a chance to skate but also emphasize the educational value of sports.
Commitment to Youth Hockey Development
The Rink Pass program is part of a larger investment by the Capitals, totaling over $3.8 million, aimed at developing youth hockey in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. This funding is primarily sourced from the NHL’s Industry Growth Fund, which supports initiatives designed to break down barriers that keep children from participating in sports.
Inclusivity is a core principle of the Rink Pass program. The Capitals are dedicated to ensuring that every child, regardless of their prior experience or skill level, has the opportunity to engage with hockey in a fun and safe environment. This commitment aligns with the Capitals’ broader mission to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles among youth.
The Capitals Hockey School Program
The Rink Pass initiative builds on the success of the Capitals Hockey School program, presented by Capital One. This program has made significant strides in introducing hockey to children in elementary and middle schools across the region. Currently implemented in over 1,601 local schools, the program reaches more than 1,052,294 students annually.
As part of this initiative, the Capitals provide free hockey equipment, including sticks, nets, balls, and pucks, to participating schools. They also offer a standardized curriculum that adheres to SHAPE America’s national requirements, ensuring that students receive quality instruction.
Growing the Hockey Community
The impact of these programs is evident in the growing number of registered players in the region. As of now, USA Hockey reports a total of 21,949 registered adult and youth players across Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland, with 12,749 of those being youth players. This growth reflects the Capitals’ successful efforts to engage young athletes and foster a vibrant hockey community.
For those interested in learning more about the Rink Pass program and how it aims to transform youth hockey in the area, additional information can be found here. The Capitals’ commitment to youth sports continues to pave the way for the next generation of hockey players, ensuring that the love for the game thrives in the D.C. area.