The Anaheim Ducks have hired former captain Ryan Getzlaf to do captain-type things for the team -- just doing it off the ice.

He was named director of player development Tuesday -- charged with helping prepare and educate Ducks prospects for a career in professional hockey.

"I am so excited to be back in a role where I feel I can help our young players, who are the focal point of both the future and present of our hockey club," Getzlaf said in a statement. "This opportunity will give me the chance to help them in the critical years of their development and share the many years of experiences that I have had. I would also like to thank Pat and his staff for giving me the chance to come in and learn, as well as help where I can."