Washington, D.C. (7News) — The Washington Capitals are bringing young girls a fresh opportunity to lace up skates of their very own! Senior Manager of Youth Development for the Washington Capitals Jessie Thompson joined Good Morning Washington on Wednesday to share how she’s encouraging young girls to engage with hockey.
“DMV Girls Try Hockey Free Day” started just three years ago to offer young girls aged 4-9 the opportunity to try hockey for the first time. “Girls hockey is booming in the area,” says Thompson, “and we’re so honored to be a part of it through this event”.
Growing up in the DMV, Thompson got started in hockey at the age of 12, and “never looked back.” She says it’s important to create an environment where young girls feel safe exploring, and making mistakes in an often “intimidating” sport.
Women’s hockey is a growing sport, says Thompson, and is “so much more than just what’s happening on the ice.” She cites the sport’s ability to mold athletes’ leadership, teamwork and independence skills.
In addition to DMV Girls Try Hockey Free Day, Thompson also leads other youth events like All Caps All Her, which won the 2024 NHL “Stanley” Award for Best Social Impact Initiative. Launched in 2021, the program is aimed at empowering women and girls in hockey while recognizing impactful community leaders.
Thompson assures that hockey is “a family sport” and through initiatives like these to spread the message that “there’s a place to play for everybody.”
For more information, visit Caps Youth Hockey’s website here.