Red Lake, Ontario – The Red Lake Miners are thrilled to announce that Matthew MacPherson has been named the captain for the upcoming 2024-25 season. After two successful seasons with the Miners, MacPherson has proven himself as both a player and a leader, earning multiple team awards including Community Commitment, Most Dedicated, and Best Teammate last year.
“I am so privileged and honoured to be named captain,” said MacPherson. “Ever since I was young, it has always been a goal of mine to captain a junior hockey team, and I am very thankful for the opportunity to fulfill that goal. I have played my last two years in Red Lake and understand what the players and community want from their captains, and I feel that I can fill those shoes.”
MacPherson’s impressive track record extends beyond team accolades. He was also a runner-up for two league awards: Best Defensive Forward and Community Achievement Awards. His commitment to the game and the community exemplifies the values of the Miners.
As captain, MacPherson aims to lead by example both on and off the ice. “I am a leader who leads by example,” he stated. “I am a guy who shows up early and will stay late, as well as be there for the guys when they might need a person to talk with. I will push them on the ice and in the gym to do the best they possibly can.”
MacPherson has clear goals for the season ahead. “My goals for the season as captain are to make sure all the young guys understand what it takes to be a Miner and what we want to accomplish this year,” he explained. “I want to help the young guys adjust to juniors and moving away from home for the first time. The ultimate goal is to win a championship and bring Bill back to Red Lake.”
The Miners’ dedication to their community is also a priority for MacPherson. “As a community-owned team, we try our best to get out into the community, and they can expect to see me doing my share of work. I have seen what it takes to become a team, and I will push everyone to be the best player and person they can become.”
Head Coach and General Manager Lee Stone expressed his enthusiasm for MacPherson’s leadership. “Matthew is a no-brainer decision to lead this team day in and day out. It was clear last year that he had no hesitation leading by example, and we are excited as a staff to see him take the next step as a player and as a leader. We are beyond proud to announce Matthew as this year’s Captain!”
President Jason Vinet also praised MacPherson, stating, “The Miners organization is extremely grateful and excited to have Matthew MacPherson be named as the captain for the 2024-25 season. Mac is a proven leader on the ice, arguably the best penalty killer and shot blocker in the league, a stand up guy who emits class and character. More importantly is the valued leadership he brings off the ice as a two time Lions Club award winner for his commitment to community. Mac spends many hours each year volunteering his time to the schools and minor hockey and is the first to organize and implement volunteer strategies for the team. A selfless, dedicated and humble young man that represents the Red Lake Miners and its community with class, respect and grace. The Red Lake Miners are extremely lucky and grateful to have had Matthew MacPherson for three seasons and couldn’t be happier to have Mac as their captain for the 2024-25 season.”
The Red Lake Miners are excited to see MacPherson’s leadership in action this season and look forward to a competitive and rewarding year ahead.