Ontario Reign: Joe Hicketts Leading by Example

The “C” on the jersey is something no player should take lightly. It means they are a vocal leader and lead by example on the ice. The 28-year-old has done exactly that this year. His play style might not be flashy, but it gets the job done. The captain has 24 points in 44 games, but the little things that don’t show up in the box score make him stand out. From always being vocal, in the right position, breaking up passes, playing big minutes, being on special teams, and a willingness to block shots, he does it all and leads by example.

“First of all, that’s why he’s the captain, right? He leads by example every day. Secondly, I hope those young kids watch him. How he prepares and brings it every night..There’s no other better player for our [defensive] core group to watch every day and learn from him,” Sturm said about Hicketts’ leadership and value to the team after the Reign’s 2-1 shootout victory over the San Diego Gulls on December 7th.

Two players who have benefited from playing with Hicketts on the backend are Angus Booth and Jack Millar. Both have earned the trust from Sturm, and having Hicketts as a partner on the backend certainly helps and gives them confidence with him as a mentor.

Having the “C” on the jersey is something Hicketts himself takes pride in and doesn’t take it for granted.

“It’s definitely an honor [to wear the “C”]. I want to lead by example for the most part…I think going out there putting in the work and showing what it takes to be a pro is something that can help further these young defensemen’s careers. And not only [defensemen], it’s forwards too. It’s guys buying into a system, learning how to be a professional and the pro level,” Hicketts said after the Reign’s 2-1 shootout victory over the Calgary Wranglers on February 23rd.

Having a veteran like Hicketts on your roster is valuable for an AHL team, and the Reign are lucky to have a leader like him on and off the ice. With the race for the playoffs gearing up and the dog days of the season beginning, that veteran presence will only be immense for the youth on the backend.