The captain of a hockey team, adorned with the iconic ‘C’ on their jersey, embodies leadership, authority, and often becomes the face of the franchise.
But there’s a silent leader on the ice who rarely receives such recognition: the goalie. This comprehensive exploration delves into the complex world of goalie leadership in ice hockey, examining the rules, historical precedents, and the unique challenges and opportunities these masked guardians face.
The Rulebook: Why Goalies Can’t Be Captains in the NHL
The NHL rulebook explicitly prohibits goalies from serving as captains or alternate captains. This regulation, NHL Rule 6.