When the news broke that the 2021-22 MJHL season was a go, every team in the league was tasked with finding a full roster and putting together their leadership group, something that isn’t always easy. For Head Coach and General Manager Barry Wolff, it was an easy decision who would be wearing the ‘C’ and one that was right from day one. The chosen leader as team captain was Swan River’s own Carter Cockburn.
“Since day one Carter has led the way,” said Wolff. “He is a great leader on and off the ice, has a solid work ethic, is always the first to volunteer for public events and is the one to help teach the Stampeder way and culture to the new players on the team. We are proud of how Carter has continued to develop as a player but more so as a solid citizen in the community.”
The 20-year-old has been with the organization since 2016 when he was auto-protected. He jumped into action in 2018 when he was called up from the Parkland Rangers U18AAA program, playing in five games and collecting four points. 2018 seems just like yesterday, but for the 6’2” 194lbs local forward, it has gone by fairly quickly.
Over the course of four plus seasons with the Stampeders, Cockburn has collected 29 goals, adding 27 assists in 129 regular and playoff games combined. Cockburn has loved every minute of being a part of the Stampeder Organization helping out at any public event and always carrying a smile when he does so.
“I’m very honoured and humbled to be able to wear the ‘C’ for the Stampeders,” said Cockburn. “I consider myself a lead by example type of leader but will speak up if and when it’s needed. It’s been great so far and hasn’t been much of an adjustment. I’m trying to embrace the role of being a leader on this team by being myself.”
Cockburn is in his last year of eligibility and has embraced his role as captain. Carter Cockburn is your Swan Valley Stampeders 2021-22 Team Captain.