The Metro Jets’ success and tradition is going global.
And quite literally, too.
Just as the team enters its 30th year and begins its first season in the United States Premier Hockey League, the club learned it had been invited to take part in the prestigious Bauer Cup Junior Tournament in Beijing, China.
The tournament runs from Sept. 30-Oct. 8, and the Jets will be competing with junior teams from Finland, Latvia, Germany, Sweden and Russia (Dynamo Moscow).
“Just having the opportunity to go to China is an opportunity of a lifetime for everyone,” said Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville. “To be able to see visit a country and culture many of us may never visit during our lives is certainly exciting.”
Jets veteran forward Jeremy Schwartz, recently named team captain on Sept. 18, is chomping at the bit to head overseas.
“I am most looking forward to not only being able to skate in another country, but to also be representing the United States,” said Schwartz. “It’ll most definitely be a shock at first, but I am so excited to see all of the cultural differences and to try some new foods.”
As far as representing the United States, Quenneville noted that there is “no greater honor than playing for your country.”
“To be chosen to represent the country is special,” said Quenneville. “The idea that this program gets to participate in an international event adds another chapter to the Jets organization. I know the players are hungry to represent the USA and we look forward to the challenge.”
And while the Jets are hoping to gain some victories in China, the experience in and of itself is one the players and staff will remember for a lifetime.
“We are going to take it all in,” Quenneville said. “When the puck drops, it’s all about how we compete and playing the right way. That said, once the competition is done for the day, we will enjoy the culture, food and build memories that these kids will hold forever.”
