Sticks, Strings, and the Captains C: Jordan Eberle
By Jayd Serdy, edited by Charles Hamaker
Seattle, WA - Jordan Eberle has worn a lot of jerseys in his hockey career, and quite a few of those jerseys sporting an “A.” But when he slipped the captain’s “C” over the front of his Seattle Kraken sweater last season, the weight of that letter came with new meaning. Eberle is just the second player in franchise history to be named captain, and with that comes new territory.
Seattle Kraken winger Jordan Eberle was unveiled as the teams captain in the series opener against the St. Louis Blues on Tuesday, October 8th, 2024 at Climate Pledge Arena. (Photos by Rio Giancarlo for Circling Seattle Sports)
The game wasn’t just about goals, assists, or wins anymore. It was about presence, leadership, and steadiness - both on and off the ice.
“Last year, getting hurt and not being around for a while was really hard. Anytime you become a leader, a captain, I think the biggest thing is to try to be the same person you’ve always been. For me, it’s about connecting with every guy in the room. There are different things that motivate each guy, but ultimately it’s about the team, progressing forward, and trying to lead by example.”
That desire to stay consistent, even in the midst of injury, is a trait teammates have long noticed. And as Eberle enters this stage of his career, it’s become increasingly clear that his leadership extends well beyond the locker room.
Over the past three years, he and his family have poured themselves into a project that reflects their values: the Sticks and Strings Foundation.
“You get to a certain age, you have kids, and you just try to give back as much as you can. We pinpointed five things that meant a lot to us, whether it’s sports, music, reading, getting outdoors, or just mothers in need. Ultimately, trying to help those who are less fortunate.”
The foundation’s name hints at Eberle’s own passions: sticks for hockey, strings for the music he and his family love. But its mission is broad, ranging from supporting literacy programs to providing outdoor spaces where kids can play and families can gather. Its latest focus is building a community park.
“With three kids of our own, we try to get them outside as much as possible, away from screens like the world is now,” Eberle explained. “That’s kind of our goal right now. We’ve done seven or eight events already, and when you see where the money’s going, and get to meet the people you’re helping, changing their lives, it’s special.”
Much of the fundraising and organizing happens in Calgary, Alberta, where the Eberle’s spend their summers. But the foundation is beginning to put down roots in Seattle. Earlier this month, he and his wife hosted an event at a Kirkland tavern, inviting fans to be part of something bigger than hockey.
“Fans can get involved however they want,” he said. “There’s our website, www.sticksandstringsfoundation.com, and if you just look up Sticks and Strings Foundation, you’ll find us. But really, it’s about building community – whether that’s here in Seattle, in Calgary, or anywhere else.”
Despite entering his 16th season - and coming off a shortened one due to injury - Eberle’s drive hasn’t wavered. His focus for the year ahead is simple.
Seattle Kraken forward and captain Jordan Eberle throughout the preseason and regular season of 2024-25. (Photos by Rio Giancarlo for Circling Seattle Sports)
“There’s only really one goal in my mind,” he said. “I love playing in this city. We had an opportunity to be in the playoffs a couple years ago, and that’s what it’s about. It’s about winning hockey games and getting to the postseason. That’s goal number one.”
The Kraken feel his influence on a daily basis. Younger players like Berkly Catton have spoken fondly about Eberle’s demeanor, the way he makes time for everyone, and his ability to balance seriousness with a light touch. It’s not unusual for him to share a story, crack a joke, or spend some extra time with the younger guys on the team.
“I think the first time that you come in and see some of the NHL guys it’s kind of a ‘wow’ factor, like Jordan Eberle,” Catton has said. “And then you’re sitting next to them getting ready for a game, and I think this year that kind of aspect is ruled out a little bit. I come in here and understand what it’s going to be like, I know the guys a little bit more.”
Eberle still finds plenty of time for life outside the rink, too. Asked what song had been on repeat in the Eberle household this summer, he grinned.
“My daughter loves Taylor Swift,” Eberle said with a laugh. That detail may not matter in the long run, but it says plenty about Seattle’s captain: grounded, approachable, and driven by his family.
As the Kraken prepare for a season where expectations are rising, Eberle’s leadership is less about fiery speeches and more about consistency - showing up, doing the work, and keeping the group moving forward together. That consistency riding along with the structure that first year head coach Lane Lambert is establishing should have the Kraken set for success this season.
And as he builds something lasting with the Sticks and Strings Foundation, it’s clear his legacy will stretch well beyond the rink. For Eberle, wearing the “C” isn’t just about guiding a team. It’s about setting a standard for what community looks like - inside the room and far beyond it.
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