Toronto, ON – Toronto Rock Head Coach John Lovell has decided on the three players that will wear an “A” on their jerseys in 2014 as alternate captains. Colin Doyle will wear the “C” as the captain for the fifth consecutive season.
“We are looking for guys that lead by example,” said Lovell. “Leaders are not necessarily the most vocal players, but are definitely players that have a strong voice in the room and most importantly care about the team and their teammates.”
Defender Sandy Chapman will be an alternate captain both at home and on the road. Chapman has played 8 seasons during his 12-year career with Toronto and has won four Champion’s Cup titles with the Rock.
Two veterans will split the duties at home and on the road. The first of which is forward Josh Sanderson who will serve as an alternate captain at home during 2014. The 16-year pro from Orangeville, Ontario has played six of those seasons with Toronto and was a member of the 2005 Toronto Rock championship team.
Another long-time member of the Rock, Patrick Merrill will be the other alternate captain on the road. Merrill, a veteran of 11 NLL campaigns, has hoisted the Champion’s Cup on four occasions throughout his 8 seasons with the Rock.
“I think all four players are not only good players but outstanding teammates,” explained Lovell. “While Colin, Josh and Patrick are hard working and probably more vocal in the room, ‘Chappy’ is the ultimate lead by example type of player. These guys are solid pros and four of many that will lead the 2014 Rock.”
Despite not having a letter on their jersey, Lovell says there will be several others that will be counted on for leadership this season. “In some ways it was a difficult decision because there were many strong candidates. Veteran players like Rob Marshall, Bill Greer, Kasey Beirnes and Stephen Hoar as well as players like Garrett Billings, Stephan Leblanc and Jesse Gamble that are already leaders and will wear letters for this team in the future.”
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