The Washington Capitals have announced their date for small group activities (Phase 2) to resume: Thursday, June 11.

The announcement comes a day after MedStar Capitals Iceplex, the team’s practice facility, posted it would begin the state’s Phase 2 reopening plan this weekend.

According to the Capitals, MedStar Capitals Iceplex will remain closed to the public and general staff of the Capitals until local guidelines from the CDC, State of Virginia, and Arlington County allow for re-opening. There will be no media allowed at the facility.

Up to six players at one time (plus some staff) will be able to work out together on and off the ice.

GM Brian MacLellan recently said that six Capitals players remained in the area during the pandemic including stars Braden Holtby and John Carlson. Most others have begun ramping up their training in their home countries.

Phase 3, training camps where all players report, is likely to start sometime in mid-July.

New ice was laid down at MedStar Capitals Iceplex at the end of May.

More from the Capitals:

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals announced today that they have transitioned to Phase 2 of the Return to Play Plan effective Thursday, June 11. MedStar Capitals Iceplex will remain closed to the public and general staff of the Capitals until local guidelines from the CDC, State of Virginia and Arlington County allow for re-opening.

Beginning June 11, the Capitals will reopen their training facility to allow select players to participate in individualized training activities (off-ice and on-ice). Players will be participating on a voluntary basis and will be scheduled to small groups (i.e., a maximum of six players at any one time, plus a limited number of club staff). The various measures set out in the Phase 2 Protocol by the National Hockey League are intended to provide players with a safe and controlled environment in which to resume their conditioning. Phase 2 is not a substitute for training camp. There will be no media, general staff or public access to the facility.

The NHL and the NHLPA continue to negotiate over an agreement on the resumption of play.

The Capitals and Monumental Sports & Entertainment are committed to maintaining the health and safety of our fans, employees and players. We encourage everyone to stay home, continue hygienic practices such as frequent hand washing, maintaining social distancing protocols and wearing a face mask where advised. Please be safe as we work together to stay connected and get through this difficult time.

Headline photo: Elizabeth Kong/RMNB