Between the Pipes: Frank Caprice—A Goalie Who Gave Everything
Grit, Heart, and Hard Work
Frank Caprice didn’t stroll into the NHL expecting handshakes and headlines. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, on May 2, 1962, he was a 9th-round pick by the Vancouver Canucks in 1981. Most players in that spot would have been long shots, but Caprice had something even more valuable than hype: relentless determination. He worked hard, stayed focused, and let his play speak for itself. Every time he stepped on the ice, it was clear he belonged there—not because of luck, but because he had earned it.
Rising When It Counted
Caprice made his NHL debut in the 1982–83 season and spent parts of six years with Vancouver. Over 102 games, he recorded 31 wins, 46 losses, and 11 ties, with a goals-against average of 4.20 and one shutout. Those numbers don’t jump off the page, but the context matters: this was the 1980s, a high-scoring era, and Caprice often faced relentless pressure. When injuries gave him a chance to start, he didn’t flinch. He stayed calm, battled through every puck, and reminded fans that focus and resilience can make a goalie shine, even on tough nights.
Leading by Example
Frank wasn’t the kind of goalie you saw making highlight-reel acrobatics every night. What he did bring was grit, preparation, and mental toughness—the kind that makes a teammate feel confident and a fan proud. After his time with the Vancouver Canucks, Frank continued playing professionally in multiple locations throughout Europe, embracing every moment and every challenge. For Caprice, hockey didn’t seem to be just a job—it was part of who he was, and he carried that passion with him every time he stepped into the rink.
A Fan’s Farewell to an NHLer that Mattered to Him
Sadly, Frank Caprice passed away on May 7, 2025, at 63. For those of us who watched and adored the Vancouver Canucks in the 1980s, Caprice was more than just a goalie. He was a battler, a teammate, and a goalie who gave the Canucks his all every single night. Every save, every stretch, every battle in the crease showed his commitment and heart. That’s why fans—like me—remember Francis J. Caprice.
Rest in peace, Frank. You played the game the right way—full of grit, heart, and everything you had.