The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/230001
ers to Stanley Cup titles, but he also floundered in Vancouver for the very same reason Copp outlined — the team didn't follow him. "There is something to be said for the people at the top to set the tone, but if you don't have the worker bees, it doesn't matter how emotionally stirring you are as a captain," Proteau said. This season, Michigan has the leadership, and the team is following. "We have a pretty easy job because we have a lot of the right people in that locker room," Bennett said. "Whatever idea or whatever we want to put in place as leaders, everyone in that room is behind us. "So maybe we're leading the right way, but part of leadership is needing people open to following you, and that's what we have. We have teammates that are ready to tackle things with an open mind." The Natural Copp is only the third sophomore in Berenson's 30 seasons to wear a letter, joining David Harlock ('C' in 1991) and Luke Glendening ('A' in 2010), and while it is uncommon, each has been worthy. An Ann Arbor native, Copp was a captain for the Skyline High School football team while spending two seasons in the U.S. National Development program. He came to Michigan a walk-on (like Glendening) and was slotted to be a fourth-line winger if he could win a lineup spot during the week's practices. He's become much more than that, taking over as U-M's first-line center late last season and continuing in that role this year. In 14 games, Copp led Michigan in goals (nine) and was tied for first in points (14). "He was hard to get a handle on because he was a football player, and on the Development team I couldn't tell you he was a front-line player," Berenson said. "But I liked some things about his game. "When he got here, you could see that this kid brings it every day. Whether it's his football mentality or his background, he brings it. He plays physical, plays hard, and he has a good head for defense." It is that work ethic and attitude that earned Copp a letter. "I just like the way he carries himself on and off the ice — he does the right thing, says the right thing," Berenson said. "His practice habits are very strong. And in crunch time, he shows up in the games." Copp doesn't dwell long on the meaning or the responsibilities of being a captain. He cherishes the role, but being a leader just comes naturally to him. He doesn't have to think about what he'll say or how he will guide his teammates — he just goes out and does it. "Ever since I was little, I've just always instinctually taken charge and have done what I needed to do to help the team," Copp said. "Andrew is a natural at being a captain," Bennett said. "He is very passionate and emotional. He's a guy that is a role model on and off the ice. He does the right things. He works hard in the gym, works hard on the ice, and that's just who he is. He's not