That's CAPTAIN Mason to you

Tri-City Americans’ Governor/General Manager Bob Tory announced today that 20-year-old forward Mason Wilgosh will serve as the team’s captain for the upcoming 2011-12 season. The announcement was made during a press conference at Toyota Center in Kennewick. Wilgosh becomes the 23rd captain in the franchise’s history.

Wilgosh, who is in the midst of his fifth and final season with the Americans, is coming off a career-best 2010-11 campaign, recording new highs in goals (12), assists (24), points (36) and plus/minus (+19). In 226 career games, all with Tri-City, the Winnipeg, Manitoba-native has registered 29 goals and 80 points. Wilgosh is a career plus-25 and enters this week ranked 21st all-time on the Americans’ games played list, just four games shy of passing Craig Stahl (229) for 20th. Originally listed by Tri-City in May of 2006, Wilgosh played his first full WHL season in 2007-08, making his WHL debut on September 23, 2007 in Chilliwack.

Tory also announced the team’s choices for alternate captains. Wearing the ‘A’ this season will be 20-year-old forwards Adam Hughesman and Brendan Shinnimin. The team will rotate the third ‘A’ between 19-year-old forwards Justin Feser and Patrick Holland.

“Mason epitomizes everything we ask of our players…TEAM FIRST,” Tory detailed. “He joined us as a 16-year-old and has done everything asked of him. Not only does he lead by example on the ice but, off ice, he is a leader in the community and has set a standard unparalled with his off-season commitment to fitness and conditioning.”

“He is capable of playing on any of our lines, kills penalties and brings a tireless, workman-like approach to the rink every day,” Tory continued. “This is an honor he deserves and has earned.”

“Mason exemplifies all the qualities that we value as a team,” said Tri-City coach Jim Hiller. “His passion and tenacity set the standard each and every night.” (Americans)

This makes me very happy.  I cannot think of anyone more deserving.  Congratulations to Mason and the rest of the leadership crew.