On Saturday, a diverse group of athletes converged at Capital One Park in McLean, Virginia, for the 2025 Swing into Summer charity softball game, with Nicklas Backstrom leads 2025 Swing into Summer event drawing significant attention. This annual occasion brought together current and former DC sports figures alongside other notable athletes to raise funds for youth sports programs.
The game featured present and past Washington Capitals players such as Braden Holtby, Nicklas Backstrom, TJ Oshie, Mike Green, Joel Ward, Karl Alzner, Dylan Strome, and Connor McMichael. Joining them was legendary Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price, along with celebrated Nationals players Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Eaton, Commanders’ Ryan Kerrigan, and members of the US Women’s National Team including Haley Skarupa, Hayley Scamurra, and Lacey Eden.
Alzner Foundation Hosts Event Benefiting Children’s Sports Access
For the second consecutive year, Karl Alzner and his wife Mandy’s Alzner Foundation successfully organized a sold-out crowd at this popular gathering. The 2025 event’s proceeds directly support Fight for Children’s Early Access to Sports program, an initiative aimed at introducing sports opportunities to young children, specifically six- and seven-year-olds residing in Washington, D.C.’s Wards 7 and 8.
Alzner praised the commitment of the athletes who traveled, sometimes from distant locations, to participate and contribute to the cause.
“The event doesn’t work without those guys,”
he said.
“We’re happy that they’re here. I’m hoping, especially for the first timers, once they start playing and see how it’s run, that they really enjoy themselves and want to come back instead of us having to ask, ‘Pretty please, will you come back?’ We did have a few of those responses this year where they were hoping to get the call, so that was a good feeling.”
—Karl Alzner, Event Host and Former NHL Player
Team Captains and Star-Studded Rosters Fuel Excitement
Nicklas Backstrom and TJ Oshie served as captains for the competing teams, leading Team Starr Hill and Team Palo Immix respectively. Team Starr Hill’s lineup included Capitals both current and former players Backstrom, Alzner, Green, and McMichael, alongside former MLB athletes Zimmerman and Shawn Camp, ex-DC United captain Steven Birnbaum, USWNT stars Scamurra and Skarupa, and softball professional Marieo Foster.
Team Palo Immix featured Oshie, Holtby, Price, Ward, and Strome from the NHL, combined with NFL veterans Ryan Kerrigan and Nate Solder, University of Wisconsin–Madison and USA Hockey athlete Lacey Eden, former Washington Spirit and Olympian Nicole Barnhart, and softball pro Johnny Bailey.
Contributing to the event’s lively atmosphere off the field, commentators Joe Beninati and Craig Laughlin provided play-by-play coverage, while Bob McDonald and Caleb Green performed the national anthem.
Games and Fun Highlights of the Day
The festivities began with a home run derby and hockey target shooting competition, giving Team Palo Immix a three-run advantage before the softball game commenced. This early lead proved crucial as the closely matched teams battled throughout the contest.
Dylan Strome’s three-run homer in the sixth inning energized Team Starr Hill, and a four-run seventh inning pushed their comeback hopes forward, but Team Palo Immix ultimately prevailed in a thrilling 26-24 finish, securing victory with a double play in the final moments.
Throughout the game, players’ children frequently took to the field, with Anson Alzner and siblings Vince and Haley Backstrom honored by throwing ceremonial first pitches. Braden Holtby also garnered attention with his choice of walk-up music, selecting the popular Pink Pony Club to the delight of the crowd.
The Nationals’ Racing Presidents made a surprise appearance, minus Teddy, participating in a spirited three-man race that entertained attendees.
Celebration and Community Connection Close Out Event
Following the game, TJ Oshie and his team accepted the victory trophy as players from both squads mingled with fans on the field, exchanging smiles and signing autographs. The positive energy underscored the event’s dual mission of sports fun and charitable impact, fostering community spirit and youth engagement.
With the ongoing support from athletes and organizers, the Swing into Summer event aims to remain a highlight in the Washington-area sports calendar, continuing to promote access to athletic opportunities for children and celebrating camaraderie among local and visiting sports stars.