FRASER, Mich. – Patrick Hays is the perfect example of a player buying in to the Metro Jets’ development process.

He found out what that was all about last season as a rookie with the USPHL club and has signed to return to the Jets for the upcoming 2020-21 season.

“It was an easy decision to come back to Metro,” said Hays, a 2001 birth year forward from Centerville, Ohio. “I had an amazing experience last year. The coaching staff and my teammates made me want to be there and come to the rink every day. The Jets are such a prestigious organization because we have coaches who care about every single player’s development and have a national following.

“Last season, I felt my overall skill set improved, but I feel that my confidence grew the most. Next season, I want to continue to build on my skills in order to help me get to the next level.”

In 36 games last season, Hays compiled 10 goals and 18 points with the MJDP team.

“We are excited to have Patrick back in a Jets uniform,” said Metro coach-GM Justin Quenneville. “He had significant gains in many areas of his game. He played a big role down the stretch and was a key reason for our playoff success. He developed into a more versatile player as the season progressed and was relied on in key situations. I know he is pumped to get back to work, and once he gets here this summer, we know he will take full advantage of his opportunities.”

With the 2019-20 season ending prematurely and the 2020-21 campaign still some four months away, Hays is anxious to get rolling with a true offseason.

“Based on this last season, you never know when it’s going to be your last day at the rink,” Hays said. “With that said, I’m going to take more advantage of being at the rink than I already have.

“My plans for the summer are to eventually come back up to Detroit and train up there until the season starts with the team and at the M.A.T. Since the lockdown, I’ve been working out, spending time with family, and finishing up my senior year of high school.”