One of the most important pieces of a hockey roster is a good captain. One who can lead a team in more ways than one. Captains can hold that role for a short time or their entire career, depending on how long that player remains with one team.
Longevity also plays a role in a captain’s existence. In this case, Ontario Reign captain Brett Sutter has that longevity and the respect that comes with being named captain.
Sutter was named captain of the Reign on October 5, 2017, and has held the captaincy since then. Other captains in team history going back to their time as the Manchester Monarchs include Vincent LoVerde (2015/16-16/17), Derek Couture (2012/13, 2014/15), Geoff Irwin/Dylan Yeo (2011/12), and David Walker (2010/11).
Brett Sutter is no stranger to the game of hockey and the leadership role, as his uncles, Duane, Brent, Rich, and Ron all played the game of hockey, No to mention Brett’s dad is current Calgary Flames head coach Darryl Sutter.
Sutter has been a vocal leader when he has to be but otherwise leads by example on and off the ice. He’s been sort of a father figure to the younger players. The Viking, AB native has been among the biggest supporter of Reign players called up to Los Angeles this season:
Having the support of his family, friends, and teammates he continues to excel at the game of hockey in Ontario. He does not show signs of slowing down, playing like a rookie again. His 14 points in 35 games have already eclipsed last season’s mark of 13 in 39 games. He is on pace for his most points since the 2018-19 season, all while playing on the fourth line.
On January 20, 2022, Sutter played his 1,000th professional game. 60 of those in the NHL (18 with the Calgary Flames, 26 with the Carolina Hurricanes, and 6 with the Minnesota Wild).
Furthermore, he has played most of his career in the minor leagues. These games are included in the 1,000 professional games, with 942 games being played with the Quad City Flames, Abbotsford Heat, Charlotte Checkers, Iowa Wild, and Ontario Reign.
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