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You are here: Home / All The Lingo / Sports Terms That Begin With ‘A’ / Alternate Captain

Alternate Captain

al*ter*nate cap*tain

What Is An Alternate Captain In Ice Hockey? Definition & Meaning | SportsLingo

What Is The Definition Of Alternate Captain In Ice Hockey?

1. An alternate captain is a chosen team member who plays a supporting role to the team captain. The alternate captain acts as the captain when the main captain is on the bench, injured, or serving penalty time. 

Alternate captains wear a distinguishable “A” on the upper left part of their jersey. 

What Is The Purpose Of An Alternate Captain?

The alternate captain assumes the responsibility of the main captain if he/she cannot complete their responsibilities while on the bench, injured, or in the penalty box. During these times, it is the alternate captain’s job to speak to the referees, share the coach’s messages with other team members, and set a positive example on and off the ice. 

What Do The “A” And “C” Stand For On Hockey Jerseys?

The “A” on a hockey player’s jersey distinguishes that player as an alternate team captain. The “C” on a hockey player’s jersey identifies that player as the main team captain. 

How Many Alternate Captains Can A Hockey Team Have?

An ice hockey team can have two alternate captains if there is already one team captain. If the team captain is unable to dress in uniform for a match or the captain has not been named, the team can have up to three alternate captains. They may be rotated throughout the season. 

Example Of How Alternate Captain Is Used In Commentary

1. Johnny Bucyk, the alternate captain of the Boston Bruins during their 1970 and 1972 NHL title seasons, was the first member of the team to be presented with the Stanley Cup. 

Sport The Term Is Used

1. Ice Hockey

Also Seen As:

1. Assistant captain 

Abbreviated As:

1. A

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