Nolan Foote named Kelowna Rockets 25th captain

Photo: Wayne Moore

Nolan Foote has been named captain of the Kelowna Rockets.

Nolan Foote will wear the "C" on his jersey this season.

The Kelowna Rockets made it official Friday morning, naming Foote the 25th captain in club history.

The Rockets did not name a captain last season.

The team's last captain was Nolan's brother Cal, who wore the "C" during the 2017-18 season.

Rockets GM Bruce Hamilton says he included the entire hockey operations department in the decision.

“When you’re picking a captain, you need someone who is going to be a proven leader and, in my mind, Nolan will be a great leader for the Rockets this season. He’s been our best player most nights this season so far, and I believe that your captain has to be your best player most nights," said Hamilton.

“I think his brother Cal was an excellent captain for us, and he has a lot of those traits of his brother. He’s come out of his first NHL camp stronger than ever.”

Foote has had a strong start to the season. He's tied for sixth in league scoring with six goals and seven assists in nine games. His seven points on the power play sit one behind Connor Zary of the Kamloops Blazers.

“It means a lot,” said Foote. “Obviously, the Kelowna Rockets are such a great organization, one of the best in the CHL. I’m very honoured to wear it. It’s a huge year hosting the Memorial Cup, and I want to lead this team to a championship.”

Three former captains are currently on NHL rosters – Tyson Barrie (Toronto), Colton Sissons (Nashville) and Madison Bowey (Detroit).