On the night of October 2nd, the Kimberley Dynamiters announced their player leadership. Brett Roberts was named the captain with James Farmer and Nick Ketola named as regular assistants. Mason Palaga and James Rota will be rotating the third assistant role, Palaga will wear the 'A' on white jersey's and Rota on black.
Roberts was pleasantly surprised with being named the teams captain, but is aware of the challenge that it brings.
"It's a big honor. It's a big responsibility. It's really exciting." Roberts said.
Roberts is a new face to the team this year, even though the Dynamiters have held his Junior B rights since the summer of 2016.
He played last season as a rookie with the Sherwood Park Crusaders (AJHL) posting four goals and three assists in 38 games. The season prior, he played his rookie KIJHL season with conference rivals, the Beaver Valley Nitehawks. That year he played in 36 games scoring nine goals and 11 assists.
This is the first time in Roberts junior career that he is not a rookie, and now he is given the role of captain by his teammates who voted for him.
"It was a surprise, because there are guys who have been here 2-3 years." Roberts said, "we have a really good leadership group, so it makes it really easy."
He also added that his leadership style is building a relationship with the individual players.
"I'm not going to be out there yelling and screaming. I am pretty laid back.
"I like to lead by example. Help guys with tips that I have learned over the years. Try to make sure everyone is feeling good. I'm in the room always being positive, keeping guys accountable."
Head coach and general manager Derek Stuart said that Roberts has been impressive sine camp started.
"Our coaching staff strongly believes the most important trait of a captain is to consistently lead by example. Since day one of Main Camp Brett has been our hardest working player in practices and games.
"Through his actions Brett has made it very clear to his coaches and teammates that the team's success is his first priority."
The newly minted captain is looking forward to getting back on the ice with the team this weekend since missing games since September 22. On Friday the Nitro's travel to Spokane to faceoff against the Braves, and Saturday they play the Border Bruins in Grand Forks.
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