Nick Foligno stepped into a leadership position for the Chicago Blackhawks even before he played his first game with the team.cThis was just the start.
On Wednesday, Foligno was named the 35th captain in the history of the franchise. The announcement came just before the team’s first official practice of training camp.
“I don’t take this lightly,” Foligno said after his three children presented him with his new jersey featuring a “C” on the front. “I’m excited about where we’re heading. I love the group already.
“And I know about the leadership that has been here before us, and the success that came with it. I’m eager to help get us back to that, with your support.”
The Blackhawks went without a captain last season after deciding to move on from Jonathan Toews, a three-time Stanley Cup champion who had been captain since 2008.
Foligno, who will turn 37 on October 31, quickly became a fan favorite after joining the team in a trade from Boston in June 2023. He served as one of Chicago’s alternate captains in his first year.
The captaincy, especially with Connor Bedard still only 19 and starting his second season in the NHL, seemed like a perfect fit for Foligno.
“Nick’s strong presence in the locker room has been key in helping the team establish its identity,” general manager Kyle Davidson said in the announcement about Foligno’s new role.
