(Caps Outsider)
“I grew up dancing and majored in dance as an undergrad at Penn State University. I also figure skated when I was younger and grew up watching hockey on TV and at the local rink in town,” said 25-year-old Red Rocker Caity. “These two passions came together perfectly with the Red Rockers!”
Caity grew up in Woodbridge, VA. The stunning, accomplished Red Rocker has been a Caps fan her whole life. She also watched college hockey games on TV when she was younger, and her first job was at the local rink in her home town. Caity went to Penn State University where she obtained undergraduate degrees in dance and journalism. She now attends Georgetown University and is completing her graduate degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communications.
“I knew I wanted to get involved and give back to the DC community in any way I could. Once I learned that the Red Rockers often participated in those types of events, that was an additional factor in my decision to audition,” said Caity. “This is my third season, and what keeps me coming back are the fans and my awesome teammates.”
Welcoming, interacting and connecting with fans is a major part of being a Red Rocker. Their table is located by section 114 on the main concourse at Verizon Center. Caity and her teammates are stationed at the table to greet fans, pose for pictures and sign autographs. You can also see them walking around the concourse prior to the game and at intermissions and, of course, in the stands cheering on the Caps.
Caity is impressed with Caps fans because they are informed about hockey, passionate about the team and very friendly.
“The Caps’ fans in general are one big family. They always brighten my day and make me feel like I’m a part of a community. My favorite moments are when we get to say hi to the kids and share a special moment, such as when they are celebrating a birthday or attending their first game. Just knowing that I was a part of their big day puts a smile on my face, and their excitement is contagious,” she said.
Caity’s favorite Caps player is Braden Holtby. She reminisced about how inspiring he was during his first season with the Caps.
“I’ve been impressed with his professionalism and dedication to the sport ever since. I think he serves as a great role model for the fans, especially the younger fans who are athletes themselves. He’s a great example of how you have to work hard and stay focused in order to succeed.”
The Red Rockers participate in many charity events and community service projects throughout the season and beyond. As a veteran Red Rocker, Caity has been a part of many events but one in particular left a lasting impression on her.
“During my first season on the team I participated in the Fort Dupont Ice Arena service project. I was able to represent the Red Rockers alongside other members of the organization and our fans in an effort to help spruce up the rink,” she remembered fondly. “It was great to be able to give back to the community in this way, and meet some new fans who are equally as passionate about helping others as they are about being hockey fans!”
The opportunity to represent the team and be an ambassador for the Washington Capitals organization is an extraordinary experience for the talented young women who have been a part of the Red Rocker elite spirit squad, and it is clear that Caity is no exception.
“There are so many things that make this opportunity unique and amazing. I’ve met a lot of inspiring and friendly people, both on the Red Rockers team and among the fans, who will continue to impact my life. I’ve also cherished the numerous community service events we’ve done, everything from helping build playgrounds to dancing at local dance marathon events that raise money for kids fighting cancer. Knowing that being involved in something that I love doing, and having that also help others, is a blessing that I’ll never take for granted,” she said.
Visit Caity and the other Red Rockers at the Caps’ next home game!
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