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Left to right: Dylan Cozens, Kirby Dach, and Bowen Byram. (Supplied by Hockey Canada)

Dylan Cozens named Alternate Captain for Team Canada in World Juniors

Dec 18, 2020 | 1:28 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Captain of the Lethbridge Hurricanes will have a similar role with Canada’s National Junior team.

Hockey Canada announced its leadership group for the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championships with all three members representing the WHL.

With former Saskatoon Blades forward Kirby Dach of Fort Saskatchewan taking the helm as team captain, Dylan Cozens will serve as one of two alternate captains alongside Bowen Byram of the Vancouver Giants.

“These three players are all leaders in their own right, who have the respect of their teammates,” said Andre Tourigny, Head Coach of Canada’s National Junior Team.

“Kirby has set a standard for himself through his commitment and determination, which is a great example for the others on our team. He has a strong desire to represent his country. Bowen and Dylan are veterans who know what it takes to win at this tournament, and their voices will be important in our leadership group.”

Cozens has seen success in the past at the World Juniors, helping Canada to capture gold in 2020.

He was first selected by the Hurricanes 19th overall in the 2016 draft and has established himself as one of the top modern-day players in the league.

Through 179 career regular-season games, Cozens has registered a total of 223 points (95G-128A).

The Hurricanes forward was named the WHL Rookie of the Year in 2017/18 and was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres seventh-overall in the 2019 NHL Draft.

The 2021 World Juniors kicks off on Christmas Day with the Great White North first hitting the ice the following day as they take on Germany.