Braden Holtby Joins 2016 Capital Pride Parade

Washington Capitals goaltender and 2016 Vezina Trophy finalist Braden Holtby has announced that he and the Washington Capitals are taking part in the Capital Pride Alliance‘s 2016 Capital Pride Parade on Saturday, June 11 in Washington D.C.

He’ll be marching with the You Can Play Project in a group that will feature the Capitals mascot Slapshot, Red Rockers, Washington Wizards Wizard Girls, Washington Mystics Energy Squad, and team staff members.

“I am honored to represent the Capitals and participate in this important event that shines light on the contributions the LGBT community makes every day,” said Holtby. “I believe in equality for all people and I look forward to showing my support along with our organization and fans.”

The Capitals aren’t the first NHL club to participate in a local Pride event. Last summer the Calgary Flames’ Brian Burke was the Grand Marshall of the Calgary Pride Parade and was joined by members of the team, including captain Mark Giordano.

The parade annually draws 150,000 spectators. While the parade hasn’t been around that long, Capital Pride Alliance’s work tracks back to 1975, when they began to serve the LGBTA community in the U.S. capital.