FRASER, Mich. – The Metro Jets don’t rebuild.
They reload.
Today, the Jets took a big step to reshaping the team for the 2019-20 USPHL season by signing defenseman Jesper Svadang, a 1999 birth year out of Sweden.
Svadang compiled five goals and 12 points in 24 games last season playing for Borlange HF in the Swedish Elite U20 league. He was also an assistant captain in 2018-19.
“I feel a little bit nervous about the fact that it is another language and new people, but I am really looking forward to moving to Detroit and playing for the Metro Jets,” said Svadang. “I have only heard good things about the Metro Jets’ seasons and that it is a hard-working team, so it will be fun to become one of them. I am looking forward to getting to know everyone.”
Svadang joins a list of recent import players to play for the Jets, including defenseman Sergey Golov (2014-15), forwards Mathias Tellstrom (2015-17) and Louis Boudon (2016-17, will play at NCAA Division I Lake Superior State University this fall) and goaltender Fredrik Meurling (2018-19).
“We are excited that Jesper chose to sign here,” said Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville. “We have been fortunate over the years to get some high-end imports, and Jesper will be a great addition to our back end. He has good size with experience at a high level and will have immediate impact on the ice. We look forward to working with him on his development and helping give him the best opportunity after junior hockey.”
A two-way defenseman who goes 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, Svadang says he has a strong skating technique and a good shot.
“I will do everything to make the team win,” Svadang said.
Aging out of juniors after this season, Svadang has immediate goals with the Jets and also goals for this time next year.
“My short-term goal is to earn a spot on the team and get a lot of playing time and confidence,” said Svadang. “I also want to develop and become a better hockey player. My long-term goal is to get the team in the playoffs, go on a long run and produce some points. Another goal that I have is that I want to grow as a player so that I have the skill set to play in a higher league and to earn a place there after next season.”
