During his short time in Moose Jaw, Owen Hardy has made a huge impact with the Warriors.

Hardy becomes the 33rd player to wear the captain’s 'C' for the Warriors' organization on Thursday.

"It’s just a huge honour, first of all, I’d like to thank the coaching staff and everybody that trusts me to take up this role," said Hardy, who has nine goals and 11 points in 17 games with the Warriors this season.Hardy will be joined in this season’s leadership group by assistant captains Brayden Tracey, Daemon Hunt, Tate Popple (road) and Ryder Korczak (home).

Warriors head coach Tim Hunter said those five players best exemplify the four qualities that he wants the Warriors to put forward — have fun at the rink, be competitive, be compassionate and being aware of what is going on around the entire team.

"You want direction, watch how they practice, watch how they work, watch how they work in the gym and how they carry themselves on and off the ice," Hunter said. 

Hardy feels he is ready to lead the way.

"You just need to show up to the rink every day with a good attitude, try to be the hardest worker every single day, don’t take everything too seriously, be a good example for the guys," he said.

"Just don’t embarrass anybody, being nice to guys, keeping it light, we’ve got a young team, so the more we can lift each other up, the better."

The Warriors acquired Hardy from the Vancouver Giants in early October, but the overage forward has immediately found his way in the locker room and with the coaching staff.

Hardy was an alternate captain with the Giants last season when he helped the team to the WHL Championship Series. He has played 250 regular-season games in the WHL, posting 39 goals and 80 points.Hardy has also appeared in 29 career playoff games.

The Nanaimo, B.C. product said he plans to lead a young Warriors team as best as he can.

"I just like to lead by example, be a good teammate, just work hard, make the jersey and team proud," Hardy said.

With a roster light on WHL experience, Hardy knows that he will be looked upon by his teammates to set an example.

"It’s a great group of guys, they’re going to make my job easy, so I don’t even know if it’s me, it’s more them, I just couldn’t be happier to be with such a great group," Hardy said.

Hardy’s first game with the 'C' on his jersey will be on Friday when the Warriors host the Medicine Hat Tigers at Mosaic Place.