Head coach Manny Malhotra returned to the Canucks organization this summer and was thrilled to see familiar faces in the coaching, development, and management ranks.
However, when it came to the players he would be coaching, he didn’t know much. The positive news for Malhotra is that he took on coaching a youthful Abbotsford Canucks team with a young captain in Chase Wouters.
The coach and captain quickly formed a connection, bonding over their hockey backgrounds, the importance of competitiveness in a player, and faceoffs.
“Chase is incredibly easy to talk to, and we’ve had some wonderful conversations, not just about the team and hockey, but also on non-hockey topics, which helps build a stronger relationship than just discussing hockey,” said Malhotra.
“He has been exceptional not only in his vocal presence in the room but also in the way he plays the game and competes every shift. He sets a great example, and that’s what you look for in a captain.”
Wouters, now in his third season as captain, has always worn the ‘C’ and continues to learn and grow. Veterans John Stevens, Phil Di Giuseppe, and Christian Wolanin have utilized their professional experience to mentor Wouters in becoming a better leader.
“Effective leadership is crucial for a team,” said Wouters. “Having a strong leadership group creates a positive impact, starting with our coaches, our main leaders. Then it extends to us as older players like Christian, John, and Phil, who play a significant role in our culture here in Abbotsford, embodying what it means to be an Abbotsford Canuck. They arrive daily with the right attitude, making it contagious.”
When settling in as Abbotsford’s coach, Malhotra had already heard about Wouters’ leadership prowess within the organization.
“He has exceeded all expectations, he’s an outstanding individual and a remarkable leader,” Malhotra noted.
Wouters is known for grinding opponents down, excelling in faceoffs, contributing on special teams, and standing up for his teammates when necessary.
Now entering his fourth full season in the AHL after signing as an undrafted free agent from the WHL, Wouters feels prepared to elevate his game further, with Malhotra as the ideal coach to guide him.
“I believe my game improves each year,” Wouters stated. “I have a strong offseason training program and an excellent opportunity here to progress in my game, be a supportive teammate, and a good friend to everyone in the room. I take pride in that, and I see improvements. I am confident in continuing that growth with Manny.”
Wouters, Malhotra, and the rest of the Abbotsford Canucks have returned from their road trips to begin the season and are gearing up for their home opener at the Abbotsford Centre on Friday, October 25th.
The game starts at 7:00 p.m. PT, and tickets for Friday’s game can be found HERE.
