How the Capitals and Black Hockey Committee are reshaping hockey's future
The Washington Capitals and the Black Hockey Committee are collaborating to combat racism in hockey and expand its reach. Their initiatives focus on genuine community engagement through various programmes and partnerships. Leaders in the hockey world have shown support for these ongoing efforts.
One key project is the Capitals Rising Stars Academy, which aims to cultivate young talent from diverse backgrounds. The team has also established the Capital Impact Fund to support grassroots hockey programmes. Inside Capital One Arena, a permanent Black Hockey History Display now educates fans about the contributions of Black players and leaders in the sport.
Tammi Lynch, founder of Players Against Hate, praised the Capitals for featuring her organisation's design as a shoulder patch on their warmup jerseys during Black History Night in 2021. Meanwhile, Bryan King, Ice Hockey Director at Friends of Fort Dupont, described diversity in hockey as ensuring everyone feels welcome. His view was echoed by Tarik El-Bashir, a TV analyst and board member of the same organisation, who stressed the need for better representation at all levels.
Coaches and community leaders have also highlighted their favourite initiatives. Corinne McIntosh-Douglas, a member of the Black Girl Hockey Club, pointed to the Amerigol LatAm Cup as a standout competition for broadening access. Alexandria Briggs-Blake, President of the Tucker Road Parent Hockey Organization, celebrated the Tucker Road Ducks Program for its impact on local youth. Neal Henderson, founder of the Fort Dupont Cannons, expressed hope that these efforts will bring hockey to new communities and inspire future players.
Duante' Abercrombie, Head Coach at Tennessee State University, called the Black Hockey Committee's work a movement rather than a short-term effort. Devon Leary, Director of Community Outreach at Gonzaga College High School, saw the committee as a way to give back to Washington, D.C., and open doors for others.
The Capitals and the Black Hockey Committee continue to push for lasting change through education, financial support, and visibility. Their programmes—from youth academies to historical displays—aim to make hockey more inclusive. The response from coaches, players, and advocates shows a growing commitment to diversity in the sport.
