One of the Bulldogs biggest on ice leaders has proven she can lead off the ice too.

Senior center Gabbie Hughes was named an assistant captain by the University of Minnesota Duluth women's hockey team Monday, joining the leadership core of senior captains Anna Klein and Kylie Hanley, as well as assistant captain Kailee Skinner.  

"As a coaching staff, we have decided to add Gabbie as an assistant captain," said Bulldog head coach Maura Crowell. "We feel that No. 17 in an 'A' strengthens both the leadership group and our team at large. She has shown detailed preparation, a willingness to bring others along, and a consistent ability to elevate her game in the biggest moments. She is a natural fit as a captain of this team."

The Lino Lakes, Minn. native has been as dangerous on the ice offensively as ever, currently tied for the highest point per game average in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association with 1.75 PPG.  Hughes leads the Bulldogs through eight games with 14 points on six goals and eight assists -- and has posted multiple point games in half (four) of those skates.

"I am honored to wear an 'A' the rest of this season alongside the great leadership we already have," said Hughes. "Being given this honor is a special recognition and means a lot. To me it shows the trust my teammates and coaches have in me. Excited for the rest of the season to get back in action and show off the team we have."

Hughes and the Bulldogs have one final weekend off from outside competition before they travel to Bemidji, Minn. to face Bemidji State University in a WCHA series on Nov. 19-20.

For a look at all the UMD captains in program history, click here.