BGHC Announces DC Impact Grant Courtesy of the Capital Impact Fund

Grant will support DMV players to pursue their dreams on the ice

Los Angeles, CA: Black Girl Hockey Club (BGHC) is pleased to announce the launch of the DC Impact Grant. In recognition of the unique ties between BGHC, the Washington Capitals, and the DMV – a region steeped in Black history, this fund was created with the belief that finances
should never hinder players from achieving their greatest potential in hockey.

The first recipient of the DC Impact Grant is Arianna Willett. A proud native of Washington, DC, Arianna is a two-time BGHC scholarship recipient. Her love of hockey began with the Tucker Road Ducks and Fort Dupont Cannons. Arianna is currently a rising standout player on the Northern Virginia Ice Dogs. Teammates and coaches highlight Arianna’s effort, hard work, and commitment to fostering an inclusive team culture as what sets her apart as a player. She serves as a mentor for girls in her community and aspires to help establish a team comprised of girls of color.

The DC Impact Grant is made possible by the Capital Impact Fund, established by the Capitals and Monumental Sports and Entertainment (MSE) Foundation to provide access to the sport and create more equal playing fields for all. “Monumental Sports & Entertainment Foundation
and the Washington Capitals are thrilled to be able to support Black Girl Hockey Club,” said Elizabeth Pace, President and Executive Director of MSE Foundation. “Our Capital Impact Fund grant program was created to support local nonprofit organizations dedicated to further
advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in hockey, and Black Girl Hockey Club’s newly created D.C. Impact Grant is a wonderful example of the usage of this funding. We are proud that the Capital Impact Fund is eliminating cost barriers faced by players of color in the D.C. area.”

Upon hearing the news of receiving the grant, Arianna’s mother, Lisa, mentioned “It is hard to believe she has accomplished so much in 3 years! Black Girl Hockey Club with the endowment of the Washington Capitals are directly responsible for the growth. With this and previous scholarships, Arianna has been able to step up her game, continue to volunteer with future players of this sport to prepare a campaign to recruit more youth for the game she loves so much and encourage her peers to strive in whatever field they are talented in. There are more and more girls of color joining the sport and when the next cycle comes around, Arianna would like to nominate some upcoming stars from various teams. We can’t wait to celebrate their accomplishments. “

The DC Impact Grant will serve as an extension of BGHC’s scholarship program. In celebration of BGHC advancing its mission to make hockey more accessible, Scholarship Chair, Rhea Duncan stated, “Financial support for black girls in hockey isn’t just about leveling the playing field; it’s about empowering dreams, breaking barriers, and building a future where talent knows no boundaries. Congratulations to Arianna on blazing a trail for others to follow!” For more information on Black Girl Hockey Club’s scholarship program and other initiatives, please visit our website.

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Black Girl Hockey Club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the inclusion of Black women and girls in ice hockey.
For media inquiries: Isabel Graham

[email protected]