MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – The start of the 2023-24 USPHL regular season for the Metro Jets is under two months away and marks the 35th year for the junior hockey organization and perennial national powerhouse.

This season, the Jets and MJDP teams will continue to play in the Premier Division, the Jets in the Great Lakes division and MJDP in the Midwest East, while a new Jets team will play in the Elite Division with five other teams in the Midwest Division.

All Jets home games are played at Mount Clemens Ice Arena (Jets Rink).

“Everyone is eager to get started and excited about our diverse schedule,” said Jets GM Justin Quenneville. “I feel like we hit another home run with regards to bringing versatility and competitiveness throughout the season. In addition, playing in more showcases than any other team continues to prove we provide the best opportunities for our players. Couple this with the most experienced staff and detailed development model, we know our guys will continue to benefit from our program.
“We strive to push the bar every year and adding an Elite schedule will add another layer for our guys to play more games, develop, and maximize exposure.”

The regular season runs through the end of February with the postseason starting in March.

At the Jets’ home opener Sept. 30, the team will host a tribute for defenseman Braydin Lewis, a three-year Jets player (2020-23) who unfortunately lost his battle with cancer in April.

Several key dates to mark on your calendars include:
Sept. 30 – Jets vs. Cincinnati Jr. Cyclones (Braydin Lewis ceremony and jersey retirement)
Nov. 16-20 – USPHL Detroit Showcase, hosted by the Jets
Jan. 20 – Jets vs Toledo Cherokee (Coney Cup)

SEASON OPENERS
Jets Premier: vs. Cincinnati Jr. Cyclones, Sept. 30, 4 p.m. EST, Mount Clemens Ice Arena
MJDP Premier: at Chicago Crush, Sept. 23, 5:10 p.m. EST, Addison Ice Arena
Jets Elite: at Chicago Crush, Sept. 23, 8:05 p.m. EST, Addison Ice Arena

HOME OPENERS
Jets Premier: vs. Cincinnati Jr. Cyclones, Sept. 30, 4 p.m. EST
MJDP Premier: vs. Decatur Blaze, Oct. 6, 6:30 p.m. EST
Jets Elite: vs. Decatur Blaze, Oct. 6, 4 p.m. EST

One of the most intense rivalries not only in the USPHL but in all of junior hockey, the Jets and Toledo Cherokee, kicks off Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. at the Team Toledo IceHouse with the Jets next hosting Toledo on Oct. 29 at 3:30 p.m.

New teams in the Premier Division this season include the Buffalo Stampede and Nashville Spartans. The Jets are in Buffalo Oct. 17-18 and host the Stampede Dec. 15-16. The Jets head to Nashville Nov. 10-11 and then host the Spartans Jan. 12 and Feb. 3.

In addition, all three teams will play in four league showcases over the course of the season. The Premier teams will play in the Jets’ own Detroit showcase Nov. 16-20 at Mount Clemens Ice Arena, along with events in Las Vegas (mid-December), Tampa, Fla. (early January) and Hudson, N.H. (second week of February). The Elite team will skate in the Detroit showcase as well, followed by Fort Wayne, Ind. (second week of November), Tampa and Hudson.

METRO JETS PREMIER SCHEDULE

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM PREMIER SCHEDULE

ELITE SCHEDULE

The Great Lakes Division is made up of the Jets, Cincinnati, Toledo, Buffalo, Nashville and Columbus Mavericks, the Midwest East is comprised of the MJDP, Crush, Chicago Cougars, Decatur, Fort Wayne Spacemen, Battle Creek Kernels and Motor City Gamblers, and the Midwest Elite includes the Jets, Fort Wayne, Cougars, Crush, Decatur and Motor City.

Jets training camp is scheduled to begin Tuesday, Sept. 5 at Mount Clemens Ice Arena.

For everything Jets, visit our official website MetroJetsHockey.com as well as our social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and TikTok.

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Over Andreas Fleutot’s two seasons skating for the Metro Jets, his game showed marked improvement on a constant basis, leading to numerous NCAA college hockey offers.

Earlier this month, the Megeve, France native decided on Westfield State University, a Division III school located in Westfield, Mass., about 100 miles southeast of Boston. Fleutot will join former Jets teammate Bryce O’Rourke next season with the Owls.

“After having a conversation with ‘Q’ (Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville) about Westfield, Coach (Bob) Miele contacted me and showed a lot of interest in myself. I’m very excited to have the chance to play again with Bryce next year. I’m really pumped about joining Westfield and to get to know my new teammates. I think it will be a great fit.”

In the classroom, Fleutot plans to major in Sports Management.

During his time with the Jets, Fleutot tallied 53 goals and 74 assists for 127 points in 73 regular-season games, with another two goals and five points coming in seven USPHL playoff games.

“Joining the Jets was the best decision I made for my junior career,” said Fleutot. “It helped me develop as a better hockey player and also as a better person. All the staff in this organization helped me get to the next level, and I will be always thankful for that.”

Quenneville said seeing Fleutot develop and buy in to the Jets systems helped him reach the next level of NCAA hockey.

“We would like to congratulate ‘Fleuts,” he said. “He was a highly recruited player for obvious reasons. His skill set and offensive instincts are impressive. He plays with an edge around the puck and gets the most out of his teammates. We know he will have success at the NCAA level and excited for the opportunity. We look forward to following him throughout his collegiate career.”

“Fleuts is a difference maker,” added Jets associate head coach Jamie Lovell. “He can change the game with his offense so quickly, which is why he’s so dangerous. We sure missed him down the stretch and in the playoffs and national championship. I have no doubt that he’s going to fit right in at Westfield and have an impact from Day 1.”

In looking back on his time in Jets colors, Fleutot said he has many memories, including playing in the 2022 national championship game, being named 2021-22 rookie of the year, scoring the overtime goal Dec. 11, 2021 at home against Toledo that made ESPN SportsCenter’s Top 10, “and all the amazing memories and friendships I’ve made hrough my time with Metro.”

“I would like to thank my family and my girlfriend for supporting me through every step during the two last seasons,” Fleutot said. “I can’t even remember how many hours they spent at the rink watching me. I had the chance to be on skates around two years old with my dad, a former professional hockey player, and he’s always here to give me good advice and also to talk about the experience he had while he was playing. I also would like to thanks my teammates, all the Metro Jets coaching staff, the Mount Clemens Ice Arena staff, (Jets broadcaster) Matt Prieur, and my friend Braydin Lewis.”

Fleutot has been back in France for the summer, enjoying time with family and friends.

“The summer has been going well and it feels good to be home,” he said. “I’ve had the chance to practice on my golf skills and get ready for next season.”

Stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and all of the Jets’ social media pages for more offseason news!

Miami has announced that Jonathon Elliott has been promoted to the role of assistant coach.

Elliott served as the RedHawks’ director of hockey operations during the 2022-23 season.

“Jonathon did a good job in an operations role with our program for the past year,” said Miami head coach Chris Bergeron. “We are excited to add his professional and personal skill set, along with his experience, to our coaching staff.”

Elliott came to Miami last August from Saint Mary’s, where he served as an assistant coach for the previous four seasons at his alma mater.

Elliott graduated from Saint Mary’s in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in sports management and played four years for the Cardinals from 2012 to 2016. He recorded 22 points in his college career on 10 goals and 12 assists.

After graduation, Elliott worked for a year with the Onyx Ice Arena in Rochester Hills, Mich., and then spent the 2017-18 season on staff with the NA3HL’s Texas Brahmas. Elliott’s time in Texas included a brief stint as the Brahmas’ interim head coach.

Elliott becomes the third full-time assistant coach on the RedHawks’ staff, joining Barry Schutte, who enters his fifth year, and Zack Cisek, going into his second season.

A forward for the Jets in 2009-10, the native of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., posted 15 goals and 11 assists for 26 points in 48 games.

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Josh German came to the Metro Jets ahead of the 2019-20 season as a raw, talented defenseman oozing potential as a 17-year-old prospect.

Now, four seasons later, German has graduated the program after serving as team captain in 2022-23 and is off to play NCAA Division III hockey at Arcadia University, located just outside Philadelphia in Glenside, Pa.

“There are several factors that appealed to me about Arcadia,” said German, a 20-year-old from Canton, Mich. “East Coast hockey is competitive, the campus is beautiful, and the school has a wide range of degrees programs offered. It’s a bonus that some of my former hockey teammates play for Arcadia and all have spoken highly of the team and the coaching staff.

“I’m very excited and, overall, I can’t wait to be part the college experience. I am thankful for my opportunity to play for Coach (Vincent) Pietrangelo. His energy and competitive spirit to win are right up my alley. I bring both my willingness to learn the Knights’ system as well as my strong work ethic to compete at every practice and game to support the team.”

Another former Jets captain, Cody Mastay, will be starting his sophomore year at Arcadia in the fall and another former Jets defenseman, Justin Song, will be a junior. Pietrangelo is a former Jets blueliner who played for the team in 2009-10.

“Josh has come a long way from his first year in junior hockey,” said Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville. “He’s been with us several years and will leave with many great memories. Winning bronze in China representing the United States with the Jets, multiple trips to nationals, winning division titles, NAHL and NCDC call-ups, wearing the ‘C,’ and so much more. He was a great leader for us, passionate and talented as can be. Some would argue he was one of the most dynamic defensemen in the country and anyone who has seen him play can agree because of his ability and power. He is a tough one to replace, but we are excited to see him take his talents to NCAA hockey and continue his education.”

“It’s been an incredible four years of growth and maturity for Josh,” added Jets associate head coach Jamie Lovell. “I think of it as a four-year degree in hockey and life education. With that said, Josh would be graduating with honors at the top of his class. Arcadia is getting a fine young man and hockey player to continue to grow their program. He has elite skating and edge work, the best I’ve seen at any junior hockey level for a defenseman. And he has a cannon of a shot from the point. There’s no doubt that Josh will be successful both on the ice and in college life. We wish him all the best, but we also look forward to seeing him this summer helping him train and prepare for next season.”

Over his time with the Jets, which also included Tier II stints in the NCDC and NAHL, German recorded 36 goals and 82 assists for 118 points in 151 regular-season games. He added two goals and 14 points in 22 USPHL postseason games.

German said starting his college career will be a new beginning for him, both on and off the ice.

“I’ve been playing junior hockey the last four years (three after high school), so I am ready to get back into the groove of studying again,” German said. “In terms of a major, I’ve always had a math mindset and would like to look into the different business programs offered at Arcadia.”

Needless to say, German said his time with the Jets was incredible and will never be forgotten.

“There are so many amazing memories being a Jet,” German said. “Each year, we made a run at the national championship and even went to China (to play in the Junior World Cup in 2019, finishing third), but the last season was especially memorable. The team rallied together and around our brother and teammate, Braydin Lewis, while he was battling cancer. It was a very emotional season for everyone.”

When looking at how he made the journey through junior hockey and now, to college hockey, German said it has been a massive team effort.

“In so many ways, I’ve grown up at Metro and owe so much to the coaching staff,” said German. “‘Q,’ Jamie, (associate coach) Tina (Ciraulo), (associate coach) Randy (Wilson), owner Pete Cammick, and (Jets operations manager) Paulie (Sheridan) I am so grateful for all they did for me. Q and Jamie knew they could continually push me to excel and their coaching and teaching helped shape the player I am today.

“I also want to thank my parents, Mike and Kristin and brother Ty (also a former Jet). We’re a hockey family. I’ve been on the ice since I was three, and between my brother and I, I’m sure they’ve spent thousands of hours in ice rinks, driving to games and practices. I am hugely thankful for all their dedication and support. Additionally, I’d like to thank my grandparents. They’ve come to all of my home games and also tune in to HockeyTV for games. So a huge shout out to all of them for their continued encouragement and support.”

Stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and all of the Jets’ social media pages for more offseason news!

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Adrian College is fast becoming a school known for having former Metro Jets players on the roster.

Chad Noetzel is the latest to commit to the Bulldogs, joining Alex Schaumburger, who committed earlier this offseason.

“When Adrian reached out at the end of our season, it was an obvious choice,” said Noetzel, a 20-year-old from Port Huron, Mich., who plans to major in Business at Adrian. “The beautiful campus, along with the amazing program they run, is a combination that is second to none. It is also very nice getting to spend these next few years with some familiar faces.”

Former Jets now with the Bulldogs include Matt Cruz, Conner Graham, Alec Lindecker, and Brodie Thornton.

“Without the Jets program, my game would be nowhere near what it is right now,” Noetzel said. “Coach (Justin) Quenneville and Coach (Jamie) Lovell taught me to trust in myself in certain situations, along with thinking faster while playing at such a high speed. Everything that they do is based around each player moving up to the next level. I hope to carry over my shot capability along with my vision for others on the ice. If I want to bring my most valuable part of my game with me, it will be my ability to score.”

In two seasons with the Jets, Noetzel recorded 56 goals and 119 points in 81 regular-season games, as well as six goals and 20 points in 14 USPHL postseason games.

Quenneville said Noetzel is a prime example of a player coming to the Jets looking to get better and buying in to the development aspect of the program.

“This is a great time of the year when we see young men like Chad make their decision on where to commit to school,” said Quenneville. “Chad had several NCAA options and ultimately chose a top program in Adrian because of a myriad of factors. He came here from AAA hockey with no real identity or guidance like so many others. Immediately, you could tell something was there and his offensive instincts were exciting to work with. We gave him the tools and opportunities to grow, and he took the ball and went running. Adrian is getting a high-end versatile player who knows what it takes to play a 200-foot game and keep opponents on their toes when he has the puck on his tape. His character and demeanor as a person is just as impressive. We wish Chad the best of luck at Adrian.”

Noetzel noted how suiting up for the Jets changed the trajectory of his future, on and off the ice.

“Becoming a part the Jets program has been the absolute best decision I have made for my hockey career,” added Noetzel. “Over the past two years, the development of my play has risen more than I could’ve ever imagined. But most importantly, there has been nothing but amazing memories that I will forever hold on to, not only with my teammates, but with every single person that was involved with our program.

“There are so many people that have been a part of this journey for me. Thank you to my amazing parents, previous teammates, coaches, the awesome Jets fans, and lastly, Braydin Lewis.”

With summertime looming, that means no time off for Noetzel.

“My plan for the summer is to get myself in the best shape of my life, along with getting ready to live on my own for the first time,” he said.

Stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and all of the Jets’ social media pages for more offseason news!

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – After four seasons in Metro Jets colors, Ethan Smith is moving on to the college game at Saginaw Valley State University.

Smith, a Port Huron, Mich., native who proved his versatility by playing both forward and defense, was a two-year alternate captain within the Jets program.

Former Jets forward and 2018 national champion Aaron Shahin captained the SVSU squad in 2022-23.

“I have old teammates from high school that play at Saginaw Valley and after the school showed interest, I reached out to those guys about committing there,” said Smith, who turned 21 on May 23. “I then skated and toured the school and really liked it. Fitting in shouldn’t be a problem considering I know some of the guys already and met the others during their summer camp.”

In the classroom at SVSU, Smith plans on majoring in Business Management.

Joining the Jets in 2019-20, Smith spent three seasons with the MJDP team and one with the MHC team, collecting 26 goals and 28 assists for 54 points in 143 games during the regular season. He added seven goals and 14 points in 17 playoff games.

“The Jets helped me develop so much of my game over the years,” Smith said. “My hockey IQ and skills overall have improved so much, on and off the ice. The MAT being available was a huge help as well with (Jets associate head coach) Jamie (Lovell) giving us special workouts that correlate with what we do on the ice.

“Lots of things stand out over the years whether it’s making it to nationals for the past two years or just being able to go across the country for showcases. So many memories have been made.”

For Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville, seeing Smith get an opportunity to play college hockey is a result of what the Jets do year after year with their development regimen.

“Smitty was a special player here,” Quenneville said. “He exemplifies everything a coach loves working with. He is a versatile player who comes to work every day and puts in the work. He’s coachable and beloved by his teammates. SVSU will benefit from this and we wish Smitty the best of luck.”

“Smitty came to us four years ago as a young kid who just played hockey, but I think now, he’s leaving us a mature ‘hockey player,'” added Lovell. “We always knew he had offensive instincts and skill, but he really displayed his versatility and maturity. Being asked to go from forward to defense multiple times throughout the season and his entire time here with our program is not an easy thing to do, but Smitty made the transitions seamlessly, at times even mid game. He became a leader in that regard, basically doing whatever the team needed to help it succeed, and ultimately made him a much more attractive player to colleges.

“I can’t say enough how proud we are of the player and person Smitty has become over the past four seasons, and we know that will continue as he starts the next chapter at school. We wish him all the best.”

Smith noted that playing at the collegiate level is something many people had a role in along the way.

“It’s hard to find someone not to thank,” Smith said. “My parents, grandparents, and siblings have supported me throughout my whole hockey career. The teammates I’ve had have been unreal and will be friends forever. ‘Q’ and Jamie have all my respect and I’m grateful I’ve had them as coaches because without them, I wouldn’t be the hockey player I am today.”

Going forward, it’s back to business for Smith.

“Registering for classes and mainly figuring out school stuff is going to be what I’m focusing on this summer,” said Smith. “I also plan on going to a few MAT skates when I’m available.”

Stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and all of the Jets’ social media pages for more offseason news!

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Bryce O’Rourke came to the Metro Jets last summer already with USPHL experience under his belt.

Over the course of the 2022-23 season, the Royal Oak, Mich., native developed his game to be attractive to college scouts, making his recent commitment to NCAA Division III Westfield State University a dream come true.

Westfield State is located in Westfield, Mass., about 100 miles southeast of Boston.

Former Jets standouts David Chavis, Kam Limburg and Pearce Vance have played for the Owls in recent years.

“The opportunity to play hockey at Westfield State University came about through a combination of hard work, dedication, and playing for the Jets,” O’Rourke said. “As a hockey player, I’ve always dreamt of playing at the collegiate level, and I put in countless hours of training and competing to make that dream a reality. What made the opportunity even more special was the rich hockey history at Westfield State. Learning that former Jets players had also come through the program was incredibly inspiring.”

O’Rourke, who just turned 21 on May 28, is elated at the possibilities that await him at Westfield State.

“With a strong work ethic and a team-oriented mindset, I aim to adapt, learn, and make a positive impact, both on and off the ice,” said O’Rourke. “In terms of my major, I am still exploring different academic paths and taking advantage of the resources at Westfield State to find what best suits my goals. Overall, I am excited about joining the team and the academic environment, and I look forward to discovering my role on the ice and selecting a major that will shape my future .

This past season with the Jets, O’Rourke registered seven goals and 21 points in 27 games from the blue line with another two goals and three points in six playoff games.

“From the moment I joined the Jets, their coaching staff and development program were dedicated to improving my skills and maximizing my potential as a player,” said O’Rourke. “One of the key aspects that the Jets focused on was my overall hockey IQ. They emphasized the importance of understanding the game, reading plays, and making smart decisions on the ice. My season with the Jets was a rewarding and transformative experience. I set goals, worked closely with the coaching staff, and made significant strides in my overall game. I became a more confident, well-rounded player, contributing consistently on the ice. Beyond statistics, I brought leadership, work ethic, and a positive attitude to the team. I developed resilience, adaptability, and mental toughness, overcoming adversity and growing both as a player and an individual.

“I am proud of my achievements, and I will carry the lessons learned with me as I move on to college hockey.”

Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville said O’Rourke was a very coachable player with the Jets and bought into the Jets’ systems and development platforms.

“We would like to congratulate Bryce on his commitment,” Quenneville said. “He was fortunate to take advantage of his opportunities here with the Jets and was given the necessary tools to help expose him. He battled an injury this year and missed some time, but because of our program and environment, everyone did a great job getting him back and him working with Jamie and staff help elevate his game. I’ve known (Westfield State coach) Bob Miele for a long time and he is a great coach and mentor.

“We have had several players have success there over the years and Bryce is joining a great program. We wish him the best.”

In making a life-changing commitment such as this one to pursue his hockey and academic dreams out East, O’Rourke said it was far from a one-man show.

“When making a commitment like this, I am grateful to both my hockey family and my personal family for their unwavering support,” O’Rourke said. “From my hockey family, I thank my coaches, teammates, and support staff who have guided and encouraged me throughout my development as a player. Their dedication, belief in my abilities, and patience have been invaluable. Additionally, I express deep gratitude to my personal family, including my parents, siblings, and extended family, for their constant support, love, and sacrifices. Their presence at games, financial assistance, and belief in me have been a source of strength and inspiration.”

With summer rapidly approaching, O’Rourke said he’s going to keep working to be ready for the next jump in the fall.

“This summer, my plans involve a mix of dedicated on-ice training to improve my hockey skills, enjoying leisure activities such as wake surfing and traveling, enjoying time with family, and maintaining a productive work routine,” said O’Rourke. “Staying very active and disciplined throughout summer helps to enhance my abilities on the ice, and while also taking time to relax and rejuvenate through activities like wake surfing, I aim to make the most of my summer break and return to the ice refreshed, motivated, and ready to elevate my game.”

As the offseason kicks into high gear, stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and the team’s social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the most up-to-date news.

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – The 2022-23 season didn’t end with a USPHL Premier national championship, but the Metro Jets grinded through the season and came out with a long list of accomplishments.

It may have been an upset to lose in the national quarterfinals, but the players played their hearts out while one of their teammates was still battling cancer.

Sadly, 19-year-old third-year defenseman Braydin Lewis passed away a few weeks later and a celebration of life was held in his hometown of Fort Wayne, Ind., on April 21. Despite the cancer diagnosis, Lewis played six games during the season while undergoing treatment, scoring three goals along the way. His story and warrior-like persona will never be forgotten.

“Words cannot describe how special Braydin was and what he means to this organization,” said Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville. “It was impressive to see how our guys handled the adversity and was inspiring watching their brother fight like he did. It’s still hard and even more unimaginable to understand what his family is dealing with. He was a special person and made a lasting impact on so many here with the Jets. We will make sure that his legacy and story is remembered forever. We have several things we are incorporating this offseason and next year in remembrance of Braydin.

“Once a Jet, always a Jet”

The Jets will be officially retiring Lewis’ No. 47 and will announce a ceremony and more information when scheduling for the 2023-24 season is finalized. In addition, the organization will be working with sponsors and current and former Jets members on a scholarship fund in Lewis’ name. More announcements will be released throughout the offseason.

Back on the ice, both the Jets and MJDP teams qualified for USPHL Nationals again, while the two clubs each played in four league showcases over the course of the season. No other USPHL team played in four, which included the USPHL Detroit Showcase, an event the organization hosted over four days last November at Mount Clemens Ice Arena.

At the USPHL Chicago Showcase just prior to the Christmas break, the Jets went 4-0 with four straight shutouts, something that had not been done at a league showcase to that point.

During showcase play, the Jets earned wins over top teams such as the Carolina Jr. Hurricanes, Florida Eels and eventual national champion Northern Cyclones, while the MJDP was equally impressive in topping the Boston Advantage, Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings and Florida Jr. Blades.

“We always take pride in how we represent ourselves in all games, but in particular showcase events,” Quenneville said. “Given that we play in more than other teams, we always try to prepare our players accordingly. Our guys did a great job competing hard and finishing with strong results. With a showcase every month, it’s important to structure and prepare accordingly, and we have a decorated coaching staff that does a great job. We always get our opponents’ best, so we do everything to ensure the players are ready to go.”

Speaking of coaches, the Jets advanced former associate coach Adam Morrison to the USHL midway through the season as Morrison took a job as an assistant coach with the Muskegon Lumberjacks. A new associate coach for the Jets will be announced in the coming weeks.

In regular-season play, the Jets finished second in the Great Lakes Division and the MJDP did the same in the Midwest East Division. Both divisions proved to be among the most competitive in all of the USPHL.

Individually, the Jets had several advancements during the season and have already recently announced the NCAA commitment of goaltender Freddy Soderberg to Fitchburg State for the 2023-24 season and forward Alex Schaumburger to Adrian College. There are more commitments to be announced, something that also has Quenneville excited.

“This is always an integral part of our model and something we naturally take a lot of pride in,” Quenneville said. “We have several players finalizing their decisions for 2023-24 and fortunate for our players to have many college options. With our brand and our relationships, this is a fun part of the job when we can help place these young men to the next chapter and opportunity in their lives.”

As the roster now starts to take shape for next season, the Jets are taking the next step in player development with a third team that will compete in the USPHL Elite conference starting this coming fall in a Midwest division.

“We are excited to field another model of opportunity for young players who want to develop,” said Quenneville. “Our platform is unique, and we have always prided ourselves on giving the best environment for players to invest in themselves. Our program is dedicated to providing this additional opportunity and look forward to joining Elite teams in the Midwest. In addition, this allows us to roster more chances for our players and carry less bodies ultimately. Unlike other organizations, we get to guarantee more playing time and more development. Our focus can continue to be driven towards player development.”

As the offseason kicks into high gear, stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and the team’s social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for all the most up-to-date news.

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Alex Schaumburger lit up the scoresheets regularly over his three seasons with the Metro Jets, setting the team USPHL scoring record in the process.

Now, the 20-year-old from Canton, Mich., is off to join several Jets teammates with Adrian College, a top ACHA Division I school that most recently won a national championship in 2021.

“Adrian’s always been a school that’s been around for me,” said Schaumburger. “Luckily, I was always close so I was able to play in front of them a good amount of times. Having three of our old captains there is huge. Reuniting with some of the best captains and leaders I’ve ever had is also a big thing for me. Having those guys to go through the situation together has been awesome and I’m excited I get to reconnect with them.”

Former Jets now with the Bulldogs include Matt Cruz, Conner Graham, Alec Lindecker, and Brodie Thornton.

During his three seasons with the Jets, Schaumburger recorded 72 goals and 101 assists for 173 points over 117 games. He also added three goals and 16 points in 17 playoff games, including helping the team to USPHL Nationals all three seasons and getting to the national championship game in 2022.

“We would like to congratulate Alex on his commitment,” said Jets head coach and general manager Justin Quenneville. “He was a highly skilled and talented player who did a lot of big things here. More importantly, he leaves a better person and leader. Alex had a myriad of NCAA options, but ultimately chose to play at Adrian because of the academics and hockey. (Adrian coach) Gary (Astalos) does a great job there for his players and Alex will fit in really well. It will be bittersweet to see Alex play college hockey next year and he will be missed. He had some memorable moments here and was a key part to our continued success on the ice. We look forward to seeing his game at the next level.”

Schaumburger said playing for the Jets rounded out his game to be ready for the college game.

“I have all the praise in the world for ‘Q’ and (Jets associate head coach) Jamie (Lovell),” Schaumburger said. “They are the direct reason I’m the player I am today and can’t thank Metro enough. The program they have built at Metro is exactly what’s needed for players to move on to the next level.

“I think hockey-wise, I did pretty well. The time at Metro on and off the ice were easily the biggest steps I’ve taken as a person in my lifetime and to have a couple Metro records under my belt is pretty dang cool, especially knowing so many past, present and future Metro Jets.”

Now looking ahead, Schaumburger is primed to start the next chapter at Adrian.

“I’m doing Cyber Security at Adrian and as far as hockey goes, it’s back down to the end of the ladder,” he said. “It’s a place where you have to work for what you want and respect is earned, not given. I’m very excited to get that fresh start and to battle my way up that ladder.

“I have all the praise and thanks in the world to my family who supported me through all of this. Being away from them for so long was hard but we made it work and it all ended up being alright. I can thank countless people in my life, but family, coaches, and my best friend Braydin Lewis are the reason I’m where I am today.”

Schaumburger noted that his plans for the summer are to train and skate obviously, “but for sure going to take some classes to freshen up the mind.”

Stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and all of the Jets’ social media pages for more offseason news!

MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – The 2022-23 season for the Metro Jets only ended last week with another trip to USPHL Nationals, but players are already making plans for the 2023-24 season.

Jets goaltender Freddy Soderberg has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for Fitchburg State University, a MASCAC school located in Fitchburg, Mass., about 46 miles northwest of Boston.

“The opportunity came around last season and I didn’t think much of it until we kept in talks all this year,” said Soderberg, a 2002 birth year from Harrison Township, Mich. “It will be extremely nice playing in such a competitive conference simply because every game will mean something to everyone.

“More than anything else, I want to continue to develop as a player, and also make some friendships that last for a while, too.”

In the classroom, Soderberg said he is planning to pursue a degree in Engineering.

Soderberg played the 2021-22 season for the MJDP team before making the move to the Jets this past season. Last season, he went 14-11-0 with a 2.45 GAA, .917 save percentage with six shutouts before winning three more games and collecting a shutout in the playoffs. In 2022-23, Soderberg fashioned a 12-4-1 mark with a 1.84 GAA, .931 save percentage and three shutouts. He then won twice in the postseason, one of them a shutout.

Jets goaltending coach Randy Wilson said it was a privilege to work with Soderberg on a daily basis and to see him rewarded with the opportunity to play NCAA hockey.

“We’re all very happy for Freddy in his commitment to NCAA Fitchburg State,” said Wilson. “The past two seasons that Fred played for our Metro Jets program, he has grown exponentially as a goaltender and also as a competitive hockey player. He has always exhibited dedication to his positional details complemented by his character as a teammate. He has worked very hard to develop his skill set as a competitive goaltender. The past two seasons with our Jets program, he has displayed confidence and maturity focused to excel.

“I have no doubt that his commitment to his craft as a goalie will prove valuable to Fitchburg State’s hockey program, both on and off the ice.”

“The Jets made me more mature as a player and a person,” Soderberg said. “More than anything, they focused on the mental aspect of the game and how I see it. There are so many memories that I’ll never forget and these bonds I’ve made with the people here make it some of the most fun hockey I’ve ever played. The community we had with the Jets will be missed very much, too.”

For Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville, he couldn’t be happier seeing Soderberg continue in the game at a high level.

“We would like to congratulate Freddy on his NCAA commitment,” said Quenneville. “Fitchburg is a great school and has a competitive program. He is deserving of this opportunity and has shown that he is an elite goalie. He is a driven goalie, cerebral, plays bigger than his size, and when he is on his game, he’s not letting anything in. This is just another story we see every year of a player that played high school, AAA and then came into our model playing for MJDP and then this past year with the Jets. He had several NCAA opportunities and ultimately chose Fitchburg.

“Freddy will be an asset on and of the ice for them and we wish him the best of luck.”

In making a milestone commitment, Soderberg said he couldn’t have done it alone.

“First and foremost, I want to thank my parents for putting me through hockey my whole life, even when things were a little tough for us, and my grandpa for all his support whenever I needed it,” said Soderberg said. “And all the coaches I’ve had through my career. Thank you to all of you.”

Stay tuned to MetroJetsHockey.com and all of the Jets’ social media pages for more offseason news!