Considering her Caps fandom and that she is the designer for Black Girl Hockey Club with jersey design experience from working with the Metropolitan Riveters, Erie Otters, and other NHL teams, this rally towel contest was essentially made for Dabney.
In terms of her design background, she described herself as a "self-taught illustrator and designer" without a "traditional art education or background."
"Recently, a lot of my work has been hockey focused, but comics were what inspired me to practice different styles and techniques while I was growing up," said Dabney. "It's pretty shocking to see the progression from homemade comics to jerseys and rally towels for professional teams."
This love of comics never faded and actually plays an integral role in her design process, which typically starts with reading comics and watching anime. "I try not to focus too much on the actual design and just try to think of what I would like, especially when colors get involved," said Dabney.
Since the game falls on Valentine's Day, her inspiration for this particular design came from her love of the color pink. "I always say hockey teams should do more with pink, and this seemed like my opportunity to try it out," she said.
With pink featured throughout the towel, Dabney said, "I think I'd describe the final product as pretty." She added, "Most of my designs are very minimalistic or have such intricate details, but to me, this Caps rally towel is just pretty. I love it."
For Dabney, it has not fully sunk in that Capital One Arena will be filled with her creation.
"I don't think it's really hit me yet that thousands of fellow Caps fans will be taking home something I designed," said Dabney. "It's a bit surreal, a bit more unbelievable, when I sit and realize the Caps players I've been watching for years will also see the design all over the arena. It's a truly unbelievable experience."
