Standing six-foot-five and tipping the scales at 233 pounds, Prince George Spruce Kings defenceman Isaac Holt has bigger-than-average size compared to most of his BC Hockey League peers and he’s known for using his bulk and leverage to punish opponents with board-rattling bodychecks.
Now, as he prepares for his second BCHL season with Spruce Kings he’ll take on the burden of a new responsibility as the team captain, the 24th in the team’s 30-year BCHL history.
“I’m super-honoured to be named captain,” said the 20-year-old Holt, in a team release. “There’s a lot of great players that have worn this jersey and worn the ‘C’ in this organization, and I hope that I can continue to hold the standard that they have already set.
“I’m just looking to bring out the best of our team and hoping they can do the same for me.”
Acquired in a trade from the Vernon Vipers nine games into the 2004-25 season, Holt had a goal and an assist as well as 66 penalty minutes in 38 regular season games with the Spruce Kings.
The Pembroke, Ont., native also picked up one assist in seven playoff games.
“Isaac embodies what the Spruce Kings stand for,” said head coach Brad Tesink. “He is a great example of work ethic and dedication on ice and being an even better human off the ice and in the community. We as a staff believe that he, along with the rest of our leadership group will set the foundation for a successful BCHL season.”
The list of Spruce Kings captains dating back to their inaugural BCHL season includes: Linden Makow (2024-2025), Colton Cameron (2022-2023), Kolton Cousins (2021-22), Mason Waite (2020-21), Nolan Welsh (2019-20), Ben Poisson (2018-19), Kyle Johnson (2017-18), Brett Mennear (2016-17), Stephen Penner and Jake LeBrun (2015-16), Chad Staley (2014-15), Bryant Christian (2013-14), Trevor Esau (2012-13), Ben Matthews (2011-12), current skills and development coach Sam Muchalla (2010-11), Zach Davies (2007-09), Brayden Penner (2006-07), Tyler Loney (2003-05), Steve Jordan (2002-03), Adam Knight (2001-02), current Spruce Kings president David Keough (1999-00), Brad Fast (1998-99), David Kozier (1997-98) and Dennis Ladoceur (1996-97).
The Spruce Kings host the Spruce Grove Saints in a two-game BCHL preseason set this weekend at Kopar Memorial Arena. Game time Saturday is 7 p.m. and the rematch goes Sunday at 2 p.m.
