Members of the Washington Capitals’ 2024-2025 roster walked the red carpet Saturday in front of Capital One Arena ahead of their 50th season opener against the New Jersey Devils.
Some fans traveled hundreds of miles to be a part of the action. Bill Brown, who’s been a Capitals fan since 1980, was there with his wife and youngest son.
He wore a signed jersey he said was a game-worn jersey that belonged to Michal Pivonka from 1986.
“I don’t wear it very often, just special occasions. And with it being the 50th anniversary, I wanted to wear it here,” Brown said.
Fans had the chance to get photos and signatures from players as they arrived on a red carpet before the game.
Aubryn Stinson, 11, who’s visiting from Wisconsin, held back tears as she spoke about the importance of being at a Caps season opener.
“So, when I was little, I used to watch hockey with my dad, and he used to live here, so this has always been our favorite team, and it just means so much to me to be here today. This is such a big deal for me,” Stinson said.
The Capitals’ home opener had more than 70 team alumni in attendance celebrating the franchise’s 50th anniversary, but the team lost to the Devils 5-3.