Avs name Foote team's second captain in history

DENVER – The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club announced today that defenseman Adam Foote has been named team captain for the 2009-10 season. 

“I’m honored to be named Avalanche captain,” said Foote. “I’ve been with this franchise for the majority of my career and I know what the standards are here. I look forward to the challenge of leading this team, starting with training camp and heading into the regular season.”

Foote will become only the second captain in Avalanche history, joining Joe Sakic. Overall, Foote is just the ninth different captain in the franchise’s 30-year history in the National Hockey League.

“We feel Adam’s leadership skills and veteran presence will make him a great captain,” said Avalanche coach Joe Sacco.  “He has been with this organization for a long time and he truly deserves our trust to lead this team at the present time.”

Foote, 38, is entering his 18th season in the NHL, his 16th with the Avalanche/Nordiques franchise.  He was a member of Colorado’s 1996 and 2001 Stanley Cup championship teams.  Originally selected in the second round (22nd overall) of the 1989 Entry Draft, Foote has appeared in more regular season (853) and playoff games (164) than any other defenseman in franchise history.  The Toronto native has skated in 1,040 career games in the NHL, recording 291 points (66g/225a) and 1,437 penalty minutes.

The Avalanche also announced today that forwards Milan Hejduk and Paul Stastny will serve as assistant captains for the upcoming season.