Since the 2018-19 season, Jacob Vreugdenhil has been a key player for the Wellington Dukes. During the 2021-22 season, Vreugdenhil took on a leadership roll being named an assistant captain. For the 2022-23 season, Vreugdenhil will be the leader for the Dukes as he has been named team Captain by Dukes Head Coach/GM Derek Smith.
Vreugdenhil, a Belleville, Ontario native has consistently grown his game year after year from his rookie season where he posted 13 points (7 goals, 6 assists) in 54 games. Those numbers jumped to 31 points (14 goals, 17 assists) in year two while taking on a bigger roll offensively and defensively. After losing a season to Covid-19, Vreugdenhil’s game completely took off in 2021-22 putting up 66 points and helping the Dukes to a East Division Regular Season crown. Vreugdenhil was also recognized as the OJHL’s Most Gentlemanly Player.
Dukes Head Coach/GM Derek Smith stated that naming Vreugdenhil captain for this years team was a no brainer. “Vreugy exemplifies what is means to be a Duke. His commitment to being the best person and player he can be every day is what makes him the great leader that he is. We can’t think of anyone better to lead the Dukes into the 22-23 season. We are excited to see him take the reigns this year and help lead this team.”
When reached for comment on the news Vreugdenhil said it was an honor to be named Captain of the Dukes. “It’s an honor to be named captain of such a great organization. I’m really excited for this year. We have a great group of guys here and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish this year.”
The Dukes will be back on the ice this weekend as they open up their main training camp in preparation for the 2022-23 season. Their first exhibition game Monday, August 22nd when they take on the Cobourg Cougars at the Cobourg Community Centre at 7:30pm.
