DAVOS, Switzerland — Hockey Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee have confirmed that Thunder Bay's Eric Staal will serve as captain of Canada's men's team in the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing.
The announcement, which was widely expected, was made Tuesday in Davos, Switzerland where the team is currently training.
David Desharnais and Maxim Noreau were named the alternate captains.
"The opportunity to represent Canada at the Olympics is very special, and being named captain is an honour and something I take a lot of pride in," Staal said in a statement provided by Hockey Canada.
He added "David and Maxim are great leaders and players, and they are deserving of this recognition. Our entire team is excited for the opportunity..and we look forward to competing for a gold medal."
Staal is the team's most experienced player.
Canada opens the Olympic tournament with a preliminary-round game against Germany on Feb. 10, followed by matches with the U.S. and China on Feb. 12 and 13.
