MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – After finishing his high school career in 2020 with Warren De La Salle, Nick Twombley decided to stay in Michigan to play junior hockey for the Metro Jets.

One year later, the Boca Raton, Fla., native has made the same decision and will again play for the Jets in 2021-22.

“When deciding to return to the Jets this year, it was a no-brainer for me,” said Twombley. “The Jets offer so much towards the development of my game, including the coaching, facilities, and a family-like environment.

“The Jets are truly a special program. I believe, especially in the USPHL, that nobody can offer what they bring to the table for a player. It is really just such a professionally ran program, and the Jets program as a whole is truly a family.”

Last year, the 2001-born forward recorded nine goals and 37 points in 44 games during the regular season and tacked on two goals and four points in six playoff games.

Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville saw Twombley’s game grow last season and knows the best is yet to come.

“’Twombs’ had a great first year last season,” Quenneville said. “Some players take a little longer to transition to the junior level, but his vision and IQ on the ice helped him find success as the season went on. He’s a great shoebox player that makes skilled plays in tight and provides another element of offense for his linemates. Guys love playing with him because of his vision, and we will be looking to him for leadership early in the season for the younger guys.”

Looking back on last year, Twombley was a key component of the MJDP team advancing deep into the USPHL National Tournament, and he attributes the Jets’ atmosphere for getting the most out of its players.

“Not only do I think I improved on my game as whole, including my skill and skating, but my decision making on the ice improved last year, especially moving up to the junior level,” Twombley said. “As a returning player, I wish to just be an example for young players coming in to the program on the ice and not only showing how the Jets play, but also how we carry ourselves away from the rink.”

For the rest of the summer days, Twombley will be working as an instructor at hockey camps and preparing for Metro’s training camp at Mount Clemens Ice Arena come September.