Fisher named Predators captain
Posted: September 9, 2016
From the time Mike Fisher put on an NHL
jersey he exemplified leadership qualities.
His hard work, determination and presence
both on and off the ice made him an exemplary teammate and role model and it
was those qualities that made David Poile’s decision to name Fisher the
Nashville Predators’ seventh captain in franchise history an easy one.
“It is the right time for Mike to be the
captain in our history,” Poile said. “In my mind, he could’ve easily been the
captain many times in his career, but this is his time. It’s the perfect fit.
You look for the characteristics you want in a captain in terms of the personal
life, how he conducts himself, the role model part of it, and it’s A-plus with
him.”
Fisher has been a member of the Predators
for the past six years and was an alternate captain the past four.
“It will be really special to wear the
‘C’,” Fisher said. “There’s no question it’s an honor, and I’m very grateful
for the opportunity to wear it for a great organization, great people and a
great team. I believe they’ve given it to me for a reason, and I want to
continue to do what I’ve always done, but more because I want to help this team
win a Stanley Cup.”
Fisher is a 16-year NHL veteran and last
year played his 1000th career game, becoming the 300th player in league history
to accomplish the feat. Fisher has 258 goals and 543 points.
“Mike Fisher, for me, is a terrific choice
to be the captain of this team,” Head Coach Peter Laviolette said. “He’s
probably one of the best professionals I’ve ever been around. He comes into
camp in shape, he works as hard as any guy on the ice and he plays the game
with passion and purpose. He’s a guy that’s been through the battles, has been
around a long time and has learned from a lot of people. For him to step into
this role is a natural fit.”
