MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Austin Ieuter is as intense a hockey player as you’ll find these days.
Last season, even after a win, Ieuter could be seen in the locker room going over the game in his head.
It’s that intensity that the Metro Jets will get again this season after the stalwart defenseman re-signed with the USPHL club last month.
“Last year was phenomenal for me in a lot of ways,” said Ieuter, a 2002-born native of Midland, Mich. “I love playing the game and this is one of the best environments to be in as hockey player. That made it a very easy decision to come back this season.”
During the 2020-21 season, Ieuter produced four goals and 31 points in 44 regular-season games for the MJDP team, adding a goal and three points in six postseason games.
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville saw Ieuter pick up his game exponentially last season and expects him to be much-improved this season.
“Austin was adamant about coming back and continuing where he left off,” said Quenneville. “His growth was significant from the start last season. As he matured and progressed through the up and downs of the grind, he did a great job of being consistent down the stretch. He was very good for us on the back with or without the puck. He brought a lot of energy and intensity every night, but once he started simplifying the game, he started seeing success on the stat sheet.
“He can be pain to play against because of his tenacity, but he can also make you pay offensively with his quick decision making. We look forward to working with him again this year and take off where he left off.”
Ieuter noted that buying in to the Jets’ system has allowed him to develop and grow as a player on the back end.
“Honestly, IQ, knowing situations on the ice and knowing when to simplify a play can make the game so much easier to play,” Ieuter said. “The coaching staff has helped me so much, not just on the ice but off the ice in ways that better me as a person, more than just in hockey. As a returner, I want to be able to come in right away and make an impact. Last year took a little adjusting transitioning into junior hockey.
“This year, I feel ready to come in and play the game the right way and show the newcomers on the team the simple, right way to play, just like the vets did last year for me.”
It may be a new year, but the end goal for Ieuter remains the same.
“The team goal and my personal goal is the same – win a national championship,” said Ieuter. “If we do that, we’ll have a successful season. Last year did not end how any of the boys wanted it to. I’m coming back for one reason and that’s to win a national championship.
“Anything other than that would be a failure.”
