Derek Pratt returns as UConn hockey captain

Seniors Derek Pratt and Spencer Naas will return to lead the UConn men’s hockey team in 2017-18 for a second season. Pratt, the captain of the squad, is the fifth two-year captain in the history of the program, dating back to the 1960-61 season.

“Derek Pratt epitomizes what it means to be a UConn hockey player,” Cavanaugh said. “Just say with the bench press. He was 27th or 26th his freshman year. He’s now second. Every year he has stayed and gotten better and better. This is the third year for Derek wearing a letter and that shows you what his teammates think of him.”

Pratt is certainly aware of the honor his team has bestowed upon him year after year in the program.

“It’s humbling. It’s an unbelievable opportunity,” Pratt said. “It’s special. It’s something that I don’t take lightly. I’ve tried to grow and a person and as a leader and how I interact with my teammates each year that I’ve worn a letter.”

When asked about his goals for the season, he had a simple response.

“I want to keep growing as a leader,” Pratt said.

His alternate captain, Spencer Naas, will reprise his role from last season as well.

“It’s a huge honor to be recognized by your teammates and staff,” Naas said. “We have a lot of leaders in this locker room.”

Having the continuity of leadership is good for the Huskies and should pay dividends for them once the season begins in earnest.