Carly O’s should definitely be a real thing. (Photos by Barbara Banks)
The line stretched from the bakery isle at the Giant Food in Olney, Md., out the door and the length of the entire shopping center on Wednesday as fans lined up to see Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson. Affectionately known to teammates and fans as “Carly,” Carlson is a fan favorite and considered one of the best defensemen in the NHL. So far this season, he leads the league in defensive scoring with a total of 70 points–15 goals, 55 assists.
The Meet ‘n’ Greet was scheduled from 5-6:00, but Carlson extended his stay to accommodate all the fans waiting in line. Hundreds of excited fans were thrilled to have Carlson sign their jerseys, hockey sticks, pucks, hats, pennants, Caps calendars, and so much more. One fan presented John with a box of Carly O’s he created with Carlson’s image over a box of Ovi O’s.
Twelve-year-old, John, a budding hockey player from Poolesville, and his mom were first in line. Avid fans, they arrived at 2:00 to be the first to meet Carlson.
“Carlson is a great hockey player and I love the Caps,” John said.
Anna, from Germantown, and her friend Brittney, from Columbia, were second in line and also arrived at 2:00.
“My grandparents have had season tickets for 35 years,” Anna said. “ I’ve been going to Caps games my whole life.”
“I’m a newer fan. I became a fan in 2017. I’m so excited to meet John Carlson. There are just no words,” added Brittney.
The Caps’ next game is Thursday (2/20, 7:00pm) when they will host the Montreal Canadiens at Capital One Arena.
(Click to enlarge)
