The Washington Capitals are preparing to host their 10th consecutive Pride Night this Saturday, and for a team with a long-standing commitment to inclusion, this milestone is about more than just a celebration - it’s a reflection of who they are.
Inside the Capitals’ locker room, there’s a real sense of unity. Video coach Emily Engel-Natzke sees it every day.
“These guys really do love each other,” she said. “When someone new comes in, they really embrace people for who they are.”
Engel-Natzke would know. She made NHL history as the league’s first full-time female coach, and she’s been open about her identity as a queer woman.
She came out back in high school, and she and her wife, Spencer, have been married since 2019. In Washington, she’s found not just acceptance, but genuine curiosity and support.
“They ask questions, they want to know more about my life, or my wife and everything,” Engel-Natzke said. “It’s really promising, and hopefully talking about it more just encourages others to kind of embrace that same idea.”
That spirit of openness and inclusion is front and center as the Capitals gear up for Pride Night. The event has become a staple on the team’s calendar, and this year’s celebration arrives at a time when the intersection of hockey and LGBTQ+ representation is gaining more visibility - in part thanks to pop culture.
The buzz surrounding the Crave series Heated Rivalry has brought a new wave of fans to the sport. The show, based on the Game Changers novel by Rachel Reid, follows two rival pro hockey players - Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov - who maintain a secret romantic relationship off the ice. Since its premiere, Heated Rivalry has sparked a 40% jump in hockey ticket sales on StubHub and helped bring new energy and attention to the game.
“It’s incredible,” said Capitals defenseman Dylan McIlrath, who hasn’t watched the show yet but is well aware of its impact. “Any way to grow the game is great, especially if it’s kind of a minority group that feels like they can be part of the community… it’s created quite the buzz.”
Even NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman took notice - reportedly binge-watching the series in one night. “We’re well aware of Heated Rivalry,” Bettman said.
“In terms of embracing it, I think it’s a wonderful story. The content - particularly for young people - may be a little spicy.”
Beyond the entertainment value, the show has had a real-world impact. Actor Hudson Williams, who plays Hollander, shared that several closeted pro athletes - including hockey players - have reached out to him after watching the series. One longtime player, Jesse Kortuem, even came out publicly, crediting the show for inspiring him to take that step.
That kind of shift is something Trevor van Riemsdyk has noticed in the league over the past few years. The Capitals defenseman, who also serves as the team’s “You Can Play” ambassador, sees a culture evolving in the right direction.
“You’re seeing a shift in a way for the best,” van Riemsdyk said. “Where no matter what your preference is, you’ll be accepted in this room.”
He’s not just talking about tolerance - he’s talking about building a true community. One where players can be their authentic selves, without fear of judgment or exclusion.
“It’s a community here and we support each other no matter what,” van Riemsdyk added. “I hope everyone would know that - if they wanted to come out or they wanted to keep it private - just know whatever decision they make, it wouldn’t change how they’re treated in this league, or especially in this locker room.”
McIlrath echoed that sentiment: “This locker room’s a great example of everyone being allowed to be their authentic self - whatever that may be.”
Saturday’s Pride Night matchup against the Florida Panthers will spotlight that message in a big way. Fans who purchase special Pride Night tickets will receive rainbow-themed Capitals jerseys, and several players are expected to use rainbow-colored Pride Tape on their sticks during the game - a small but visible gesture of support.
The team will also highlight LGBTQ+ voices throughout the night, auction off Pride-themed memorabilia, and donate proceeds to the Wanda Alston Foundation, a D.C.-based nonprofit that provides housing and support for LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness.
“We can use our voices and us as players - it’s such a small thing for us to show our support,” said defenseman Rasmus Sandin. “It means a lot to all of us.”
For van Riemsdyk, the mission goes beyond just one night. It’s about continuing to grow the game and making sure that everyone - no matter their identity - knows they have a place in hockey.
“It’s something I take very seriously,” he said. “To be able to take part in a cause that really emphasizes, no matter what, you’re welcome in our hockey locker room.”
And for a guy who grew up with some of his best memories tied to the sport, that kind of inclusion is personal. It’s about preserving what’s special about the game - and making sure it’s accessible to everyone who wants to be part of it.