Earlier this year, a local youth hockey player experienced a dream come true with the Washington Capitals.  Harper, a 5 year-old player on the Jr. Hammerheads, had the opportunity to meet Aliaksei Protas, a rising young start for the Capitals.

The Capitals sponsor youth hockey programs at Hagerstown Ice and Sports Complex and other local rinks.  In December, they extended invitations for local players to submit an entry to celebrate 2025 Youth Hockey Day.  Harper was one of the lucky winners! 

As part of the celebration, Harper received two tickets for a Caps game.  However, her family had to arrive at the rink in DC very early that morning, because the game was only part of the festivities.  They arrived in D.C. at 7am, and Harper walked Protas into the arena.  She and Protas wore matching jerseys, and he autographed hers after they were inside.  Harper toured the Caps' locker room that morning, and even had a chance to try on a Stanley Cup Championship ring!  During the game, the jumbotron displayed a montage of local players meeting and escorting NHL players into the arena. 

The next time you see Harper at HISC, ask her about her amazing experience!  Her family was kind enough to share some pictures of the event (posted below).  The NHL Learn to Play program is how Harper got started at HISC, with a free set of equipment, courtesy of the Capitals.  She has graduated and is currently a Jr. Hammerheads player.   Harper, congrats on an amazing day that you'll never forget!