It comes as no surprise to anyone who knows Nolan Nicholas that he will serve as the Estevan Bruins' captain this season.
The team announced Monday that the 19-year-old defenceman will wear the 'C'.
Nicholas, 19, is coming off a strong rookie season and will make up part of the Bruins' top-three group on defence this year, along with David Robertson and Zach Douglas.
"It was one of those things where we met with the guys at the end of last year. We told Nolan and David it was a tossup between the two guys and with Nolan being a two-year guy, he would get the edge there," said Bruins head coach Chris Lewgood, referring to the fact Nicholas can captain the team for two seasons.
He said that isn't necessary, but it's a perk when the chance comes.
"When given the opportunity, it goes a long way. You get that continuity and an opportunity to set the tone for two years. The consistency is an added bonus," Lewgood said.
He noted Nicholas had a leadership presence as a rookie last year.
"It didn't take long last year to notice that Nolan carried himself with poise and maturity, and guys were drawn to him," Lewgood said, adding that he "does things the right way on and off the ice.
"Nolan speaks up when he should, and he never takes a day off as far as leading by example, and that's a key component. If he didn't say a word, guys would still learn from him."
The alternate captains will be Robertson, Douglas and left winger Wyatt Garagan.
"We have awesome leaders, especially the young guys. We have a couple of other guys who are quality leaders, but these guys stand out as bringing something extra, whether it be verbally or something else," said Lewgood.
Robertson is the veteran of the blue line, going into his final season, while Douglas is entering his third season at just 19.
"David's practice habits are incredibly good. That's something the young guys need to learn from. Zach's a quiet leader. He doesn't say much at all but goes about things the right way and carries a lot of respect in the room. He's very mature."
Garagan is a hometown product and is the only 20-year-old among the forward group.
"With Wyatt, his character is strong. As the year went on last year, his positivity during games is something we really gained from. He's a real cheerleader on the bench and really cares about his teammates. That positivity goes a long way."
Meanwhile, the Bruins made more cuts after their two pre-season games last week, and are now at 27 players going into Thursday's season opener in Melville against the Millionaires.
That group includes 18-year-old forward Patrick Lyster, who arrived Monday on a tryout basis.
Lyster had eight goals and 16 points in 32 games with the Calgary Flames midget AAA team last year. He was a late cut from the BCHL's Alberni Valley Bulldogs. Lewgood said two separate contacts recommended him to the team.
The latest round of cuts includes forwards Chris Thorimbert, Carter Cowlthorp, Cole McKechney and Ryan Smith.
Thorimbert played with the team last year, but Lewgood said he just didn't show enough in training camp.
"He was a depth guy for us last season and wasn't able to carve out a role and separate himself from the young guys in camp. He played hard for us last year, but unfortunately, sometimes you gotta turn the page and look to a new guy."
Lewgood said he isn't concerned about the fact the team is still carrying 17 forwards.
"We're close to where we want to be. We have a pretty good idea what the team's going to look like."
After Thursday's season opener, the Bruins will return home on Friday to host the Millionaires. Game time is 7:30 p.m. at Affinity Place.
