FRASER, Mich. – Josef Mehall played junior hockey last season, but going into his final year of eligibility, wanted more opportunities and exposure.
That has certainly happened this season with the Metro Jets.
“I knew (Jets assistant coach) Randy Wilson for a few years through the summer skates he runs and ended up going to the Jets main camp and was offered a contract,” said Mehall, a 20-year-old Berkley native. “I feel like I have improved my hockey IQ greatly through the video sessions and drills we practice. I have improved my skill sets through the great off-ice training program and pro drills we run in practices.
“As a team, this season has been great as we play for each other each night and know we can beat any team we face.”
Being a local talent, Mehall was well aware of what the Jets program was all about.
“I knew they had the top facility, staff, and exposure at this level,” Mehall said. “I also knew they had a reputation for dominating in the playoffs and helping players advance. I know we can win the division and the league championship. I personally hope to contribute to this in whatever way possible.”
Metro coach-GM Justin Quenneville knew Mehall had the talent to play at this level and has seen his skill set improve this season playing for the Jets.
“We’ve known about Joe for a few years and we are glad he made the decision to sign with us,” Quenneville said. “He is a quiet kid who comes to work every day. I think he has seen the difference in pace by making the jump to our division and league this year. With that said, he has continued to work on his skill set and decision making and lately, has been seeing positive results.
“Hopefully, he continues to develop on and off the ice because this is his last year of juniors. We are excited for his continued opportunities moving forward.”
Mehall said he first became interested in the game by having a goal early in life.
“I grew up watching the Red Wings play and always aspired to be one of them, so I learned to skate at the Berkley Ice Arena when I was five,” said Mehall. “That evolved to playing house hockey and then AA for the Dragons Youth Hockey Association. Then I played four years of varsity at Shrine Catholic High School and in the spring, I played for Michigan Elite Brigade.”
With the Jets, Mehall said his game is on the rise and he hopes it springboards into more hockey down the road.
“The Jets provide everything and then some,” said Mehall. “We are lucky to have the great locker room, offices, arena, gym, players and staff. This creates a very professional atmosphere which makes players buy in and play here for as long as they can.
“Personally, I aspire to play professionally after college hockey. I would like to study entrepreneurship or management and possibly earn my master’s degree. I want to own my own business at some point after this.”
