Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin teaches kids with disabilities how to play hockey
ARLINGTON, Va. (ABC7) — It’s not every day a group of kids learn to play hockey from a professional, let alone one of the best in the league.
The Washington Capitals captain, Alex Ovechkin, is teaching technique and what it’s like to be part of a team.
"It's good for them, good for us and good for the organization to help these kids grow up," Ovechkin said.
The hockey star hosted a skating session Friday with the American Special Hockey Association at Kettler Capitals Iceplex. More than 60 kids were weaving through cones, gliding on the ice and building confidence.
"We're a therapeutic organization rather than company-based, so everything they learn on this ice they use in their everyday lives," said Mike Hickey, president of ASHA.
ASHA gives players with developmental disabilities a chance to grow and learn by playing hockey. It’s where 14-year-old Ben Twombly learned to skate and make long-lasting friendships.
"It's helped me get a lot of best friends and I hope I can skate with them, score with them and pass to them so they can get goals," said Twombly, who has been skating now for about seven years.
It’s the third consecutive season Ovechkin hosted the skate session, and he's formed a special bond with one of his biggest fans.
Twelve-year-old Ann Schaab plays with the Washington Ice Dogs. She met Ovechkin through the program two years ago. Ovi granted her request for a sushi date after a preseason game, and their friendship inspired the character Ann in the children's book, 'Drop the Puck, Let's Play Hockey.'
Ann surprised Ovi with a copy of the book Friday in the locker room before the skate.
"She's a very cool girl, and obviously very smart," Ovechkin said.
Ovechkin is under no obligations. He’s helping raise awareness, and he’s leading the way on and off the ice.
“Just move forward and have a good time,” Ovechkin said.
