What does the letter “C” mean to you? To most it is just a letter, but to a hockey player, it’s an honor.

A letter C sewn onto your jersey stands for captain, and it is only given to the very best or to the player who shows the most leadership and who can carry out a leader’s responsibilities. For Leyden’s Brandon Guzzi this year, that’s meant keeping the team going even in the toughest losses.

“I wasn’t too surprised considering I’m the only senior on the team this year. This year we aren’t going to be much, but [our efforts] will show the coaches what we will be capable of in the next few years,” Guzzi said. “I guess I feel a little bit of pressure but I always try to stay on my A-game even when I wasn’t captain. I feel like I’m always ready for anything and will always try to keep my team positive in the worst situations.”

According to his teammates, Guzzi is doing a great job.

“I think Brandon is a great fit for the captain position. He knows how to pump people up, and you will never see him getting down while on the ice. A few games ago Brandon injured his hip and was barely able to skate. He didn’t tell the coach and played the entire game with full power. If that isn’t worthy of the captain position I don’t know what is. Brandon definitely deserves his rank, not only because the way he plays but because he is always at his A game no matter what.” said freshman player Dominic Capozzi. “Although we aren’t playing too well, he always seems to stay positive about the next game. When he hits the ice, he’s doing it for the team.”

“Our team really is struggling at the moment and we are trying our hardest to put on a show for the crowd and take home a W. This team is capable of winning games we just need to keep calm while on the ice and try our hardest. Come support us next game, we may not win but we will definitely try and put on a good show.”