Fort McMurray, AB — September 17, 2025 — The Fort McMurray Oil Barons are proud to announce their leadership group for the 2025–2026 Alberta Junior Hockey League season.
Drew Freer has been named the 41st team captain in Oil Barons history. Joining him as assistant captains are Ryan Arnold, Cody Nordstrom, and Leo Adams.
“It’s an honour, I’m proud to be the captain of this team, I’m excited for what this season brings and I trust everyone in this group, we have a ton of good leaders and I’m excited for what we can achieve this year.” – Drew Freer
Freer is in his second year with the Oil Barons and has 182 games of junior hockey experience. The veteran forward won the Masterson Award with the MOB last season as most dedicated player on the team.
“When Drew got traded here in November of last year he quickly became a teammate favourite for two main reasons, his ability to connect with every guy in the room and also what he brings on the ice in practice and games.” said Oil Barons Head Coach and General Manager Sam Klassen. “Drew embodies our 3 core values here, We are a connected group, a committed group and we are competitive. He brings all three of those every single day.”
Ryan Arnold enters his third season with the Oil Barons and will serve as assistant captain. Arnold has appeared in 188 AJHL games and last season received the Terry Conroy Award, presented to the player who makes the biggest contribution to minor hockey in the community.
Cody Nordstrom, leader of the back-end, will also wear an “A” this season. Nordstrom is entering his third year with the Oil Barons and will lead the team’s blue line group.
Leo Adams, also named assistant captain, returns for his second season with the Oil Barons after being selected to the AJHL All-Rookie Team in 2024–2025.
The Oil Barons open the 2025–2026 season on the road this Friday, September 19, against the Lloydminster Bobcats.
