Fife Flyers confirm Ryan Dingle as captain

Ryan Dingle, Fife Flyers at a face off versus Belfast Giants (Pic: Cath Ruane)

The position was confirmed by the club which also made players Justin Fox and Russ Moyer alternate captains for the 2016/17 season.

Sebastien Thinel will wear the ‘A’ at home games, and Shayne Stockton for away and Challenge Cup matches.

Dingle was the choice of many to wear the ‘C’ – hugely popular among fans he is also a leader in the dressing-room.

He said he was thrilled at the appointment

“It’s an amazing honour to be named captain of Fife Flyers. It is an organisation that is rich in tradition and I am proud to wear the ‘C’ for the club. I will wear it with pride!’’ he said.

As a player Dingle leads by example.

His ‘man of the match’ award on the opening against Belfast Giants came after a performance which drove the team to a huge victory, but it was also his way of setting the bar for everyone to meet.

“I like to lead by example and I don’t plan on changing that,’’ he said. ‘‘If I continue to bring work ethic and determination to every game it will be contagious throughout the ranks.

“We have a great team this season. It’s a nice blend of experienced and young, determined guys.

‘‘The group of leaders who have been selected to be our alternate captains demonstrate just that. It’s a one-two punch that will play a huge role in our successes this season.”

Todd Dutiaume, head coach, admitted he was spoiled for choice this season.

He said: ‘‘Leadership is something we have searched for over the years.

“In some ways picking our leaders was easy, but in other ways not so. The guys we have picked really optimise what we strive for at Fife.

‘‘We have an experienced veteran presence in the dressing room this season.

‘‘These are guys with experience of knowing what is needed at this club, and some with experience winning a championship.

‘‘They are all quality guys who will hold their team mates accountable in the dressing room.”

Dutiaume also paid tribute to his new captain, describing the forward from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, as ‘‘a top class guy.’’

“Ryan is the type of player who leaves everything out on the ice every time he plays and demands that of his team mates,’’ said the coach.

‘‘He is the type of player Fife strive to recruit, and retain. Ryan is a top class guy and an exceptional hockey player.”