As the IIHF U20 World Championship Division II Group A tournament gets underway in Dumfries, Great Britain have revealed their leadership group for the week.
Milique Martelly has been named as Captain, with assistants Ollie Endicott and Jack Hopkins.
Martelly, who plays with MK Lightning, said: “It feels surreal but it is such an honour to be named captain.
“When Martin [Grubb, GB coach] said it I was surprised but when I think of the players who have been U20 captain before me made it more of an honour and I’m excited to go into the tournament as GB captain.
“The squad all know each other well from playing in the league and growing up together, and we’ve gelled really well.
“Playing for GB on home ice is really special and gives the players an extra boost to do well. The extra energy from the home crowd will be brilliant and we can’t wait to get started.”
Martelly is joined on the leadership group by Ollie Endicott of Leeds Knights and Jack Hopkins of Coventry Blaze.
When selecting the leaders, coach Martin Grubb said: “When we announced the captains I said that we have a number of leaders in the squad and a lot of experience. Milique is a lead-by-example guy, he sets our standards and upholds them and is vocal when necessary. For me he was a natural choice.
“Hoppo and Ollie have been with us a few years now and are probably a little more vocal than Milique but they also lead by example with their work rate, so we’re happy with the leadership group and they will do a good job. But they are also well supported by the rest of the team.”
Great Britain begin their tournament this evening, Monday, against Netherlands – face off at Dumfries Ice Bowl is at 8pm. Tickets are available on the door or you can watch the tournament via free webcast – follow links to each game on our social media channels.
