Not every day do hockey players have the honor of being named team captain, let alone captain of their hometown team. NY Islanders draft pick Matthew Maggio, a native of Tecumseh, ON, located just outside Windsor, was presented that honor as he was named the newest captain of the Windsor Spitfires on Wednesday evening.
Maggio, currently in his fourth junior season, was drafted by the Ottawa 67's before being traded to the Spitfires following his first season. Leading his team to a fantastic start this season, the Spitfires are sitting in second place in the OHL's Western Conference with 25 points, while Maggio has contributed 22 points (11 goals, 11 assists).
""I am humbled and honored to be named the captain of a franchise as historic as Windsor. Growing up in Windsor, I got to witness the blue-collar work ethic that the people of Windsor represent, and I am eager to display and continue that same work ethic throughout the year with the team. We are excited about the upcoming journey and achieving our goal of bringing an OHL championship home to our fans.""Matthew Maggio
Maggio was passed on during his draft-eligible year in 2021 but was selected by the Isles in the fifth round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. He is currently leading the Spitfires in points in his final season in the OHL.
Maggio's Head Coach and former NHL great Marc Savard has applauded and supported his team's newest captain.
"His leadership not only on the ice by the way he works and competes every night but off the ice the way he treats his teammates and helps our young guys out," said Savard. "He goes above and beyond when helping others, and it is why this was an easy decision for our staff."
Maggio will debut the 'C' on his sweater tonight as Windsor hits the road to take on the Sarnia Sting.