In the Welland Jr. Canadians’ history, 15 players have been tasked with the incredible responsibility that comes with wearing the captain’s ‘C’ on the front of their sweater.
This season, Will LePage becomes the 16th, joining a list of players that includes names such as Adam Mataya, Mac Seebach, Matt Hobbs and Gabe Rugg, to name a few.
“It’s such an honour,” says LePage. “There’s a rich history within the franchise, and when you hear the volunteers discuss the exceptional captains this team has seen, it’s a privilege to have your name included on that list.”
LePage will be entering his third and final season with the Jr. Canadians organization. He served as an assistant captain in the back half of last season and has contributed 12 points in 95 Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) games.
“He was the natural choice,” says Jr. Canadians Head Coach Don Herrington. “He’s a third-year player, a 20-year-old and the first player that I re-signed when I took over as coach, due to his leadership and willingness to be here.”
LePage takes over the ‘C’ for Peter Spameni, who aged out at the end of last season.
“I learned a lot from Spams,” says LePage. “How he carried himself and the culture within the room, it’s something that I’ll definitely carry into this season.”
LePage will have plenty of support in his new role. Kai Skilbeck and Jack Ryan will serve as assistant captains, rounding out a veteran leadership group for the 2023/2024 season.
“With the influx of new talent in the locker room, it was a logical choice to assemble a leadership group consisting of seasoned veterans,” explains Herrington. “Kai, now in his third year with the team, and JR, in his second, are expected to complement each other and guide us in the right direction.”
The Jr. Canadians would like to congratulate Will, Kai and Jack on their appointments and wish them continued success this season.
