Grayden Robertson-Palmer ’25 has established himself as a cornerstone of the Andover Hockey team, not only through his on-ice performance but also through his exemplary leadership. As the sole captain, Robertson-Palmer balances his vocal presence with leading by example, fostering a culture of hard work, unity, and mutual respect.
Reflecting on his leadership style, Robertson-Palmer emphasized how he focuses both on action and communication when being a leader. Not only does he try to be vocal, but he also tries to lead by example.
“It’s important to have some vocal presence on the team, but I’ve experienced captains who can be too intense or in-your-face, and I don’t think that works well. I try to be vocal, but I also focus on leading by example. If you go out there, work hard, and put your head down, I think others will follow your lead,” said Robertson-Palmer.
Teammate Edouard Lord ’26 praised Robertson-Palmer’s qualities as a leader. He mentioned that Robertson-Palmer excels at creating a supportive team environment and looks out for the newer members of the team.
“He’s always looking out for the younger guys, making sure they know what’s expected and helping them get up to speed, it’s one of the things that makes him such a great leader,” Lord continued, “I feel like he’s the kind of guy who’s always there for you if you need something or just want to talk. He’s good at making sure everyone’s in a good mental state.” said Lord.
Robertson-Palmer also addressed the team’s assistant captains, Charles Sabre ’25 and Peyton Militello ’25. He shared that he views them as co-captains who work just as hard as him when it comes to helping the team.
“I don’t really think of them as assistant captains—I see them more as co-captains. They do everything I do and help the team just as much as I do. They’re both great guys who work as hard as I do. I think the dynamic is more about us working together as equals rather than me being above them.” said Robertson-Palmer.
Robertson-Palmer’s leadership transcends the rink, planning holiday events, such as a Secret Santa gift exchange. According to Luke DeAngelis ’25, he is almost always leading the team and plays a big role in helping set up the team get togethers outside or practice or games like dinners or activities.
“He plays a big role in organizing stuff like dinners or activities. He’s pretty much always leading everything. For example, we’re doing a Secret Santa, and he’s the one coordinating it, making sure everyone draws names and stuff like that. He holds us accountable off the ice and really sets up our team to have a great culture before the season begins.” said DeAngelis.
Though there is growing buzz around Robertson-Palmer’s potential as a prospect in the NHL draft, he remains focused on his current role as captain and the goals of his team.
“I’m not really trying to focus too much on next year or the outcomes right now. I’m just working hard and focusing on this season with the team. I think we have something special, and I really want to win this year. That’s my priority. But if something happens and I play well enough to get drafted, it would be really cool. I’m doing everything I can to work toward that.” said Robertson-Palmer.
Currently, Robertson-Palmer is committed to Dartmouth College to play Division 1 Hockey, but is listed as a prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft.
