PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: 'Pucks to Bucks' is a fundraising program for DC area youth hockey teams. Funds are generated through Capitals ticket sales with a portion of the proceeds donated back to the club or team that buys them.  Teams became eligible for 'Coached by a Cap' when they purchased a minimum of 30 tickets for any Washington Capitals home game during the 2007-2008 season. They did this through the 'Pucks to Bucks' program, which offers discounted tickets.  Each month, from October 2007 through February 2008, two participating youth teams were selected and assigned a Caps player.  Teams of all ages in the Washington DC metropolitan area were encouraged to enter.  The selected teams were awarded a Caps player and 'coached' by the designated Capitals' player at the youth teams' respectable rink. Youth players were able to learn and participate in skills sessions/drills, have the opportunity to ask questions to the Capital player, and receive pictures and autographs. The program further illustrated the Washington Capitals’ organizational commitment to local youth hockey and the development of young players. 
  
MEDIA:  Press releases were sent to the National Hockey League and local media outlets to showcase the program. The program is also promoted during all home games and through their team website.  Some 'Coached by a Cap' practices have been posted on CapsTV in the Fan Features and Video section under the tab, Capitals Insider.
  
PARTNERS:  The Washington Capitals have extended their partnership and relationship with local youth hockey teams of all ages in the Washington D.C. area to make this program successful.

RESULTS:  The Capitals have become a fun, exciting and positive presence in the Washington D.C. community.  Their contribution towards youth hockey teams has increased the number of families who attend games, which has had an impact on merchandise, concession and program sales.  Fan loyalty has also increased in accordance to their ‘Coached by a Cap’ program and their push for a spot in the 2007-2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs. 
 
LOOKING AHEAD: ‘Coached by a Cap’ has been a great addition to the parent program, ‘Pucks to Bucks’. The Capitals will use this program as a basis for future community involvement, with hopes of reaching out to as many youth hockey teams as possible.