COVENTRY Blaze forward Jordan Pietrus has described picking up the role as captain for the 2016/17 season as an honour.
Pietrus’ confirmation as captain comes just weeks before the Blaze are due to take to the ice for their first practise session ahead of the new Elite League campaign.
The 30-year-old will take over the role from experienced forward Ashley Tait who decided to step down back in April.
Pietrus admitted a lot of emotions ran through his head when he was asked the question to be captain by head coach Danny Stewart, but he feels honoured and humbled to accept the role.
“It is a true honour to be asked to be the captain of the Coventry Blaze – a team with a rich and storied history and has been captained by many great players,” said a delighted Pietrus.
“I would like to thank our management group James Pease, Andy Buxton and Mike & Dianne Cowley for giving me the opportunity to come to Coventry last October and then bringing me back this year.
“I would also like to thank the management team, as well as Danny and Ash, for trusting and believing in me with this responsibility.”
Pietrus made a significant impact on Blaze’s Elite League campaign last year – posting an impressive 46 points from 56 games, including 24 crucial goals.
The forward was voted by fans as last season’s Forward of the Year and was also named the Booster Club’s Player of the Season.
Pietrus has since been handed a two-year contract from head coach Danny Stewart who described him as the definition of a captain.
Stewart added: “I spoke to many people about him (Pietrus) over the years as I tried to recruit him in Newcastle and in Fife.
“He’s a pro – he comes to the rink everyday trying to get better and that’s infectious.
“He’s vocal and at the same time is not afraid to hold guys accountable.
“Jordan is well respected by his peers and every one of them will know that their captain will go through a wall for them.”
“As a group they all need to be on the same page but at the same time bring different elements to the group.”
