FRASER, Mich. – Fraser native John Taylor is right where he wants to be – home.
A third-year defenseman with the Metro Jets, Taylor is the lone Fraser product to play for the Jets since the team relocated to Fraser Hockeyland prior to the 2015-16 season.
According to the 2000 birth year, the choice was simple when deciding where to play for his final season of junior hockey.
“My thought process was always to play with the Jets,” Taylor said. “They are a very competitive team and don’t beat around the bush when it comes time to play. I think what makes them prestigious is that kids from all around the world come to play on the Jets every year, and the coaching staff really teaches you how the game is played.
“The organization moves us hockey players to the next level, and that’s what really matters.”
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville has seen Taylor’s game mature since he joined the team midway through the 2018-19 season.
“JT came into the program hungry and headfirst,” Quenneville said. “This kid would go through a wall for his teammates and puts it all out on the line every night. His energy level is unmatchable and when he is focused, he brings a game that opponents hate to play against. He’s done a great job over the last year refining his game on both sides of the puck. This year, he was named an assistant captain because of his leadership qualities and we are excited to continue to help him get the right exposure.”
In his first full season in Jets colors in 2019-20, Taylor said above his skill set, he worked the most on his mindset.
“If you don’t have a strong mindset in this game, you won’t make it,” said Taylor. “You always have to keep a level head and just keep battling. As a third-year guy this season, I would like a role in helping the younger guys get what they need while at the same time advancing myself. It’s important to help everyone around you because you not only make them better but yourself as well.”
Taylor and the MJDP team came up short in their bid to play for a national championship last March, bowing out in the second round of playoffs to the Decatur Blaze.
This season, Taylor wants to take that next step.
“Truly, I thought we were going to make it to Boston, and it left a sour taste in my mouth after that loss,” Taylor said. “This year, we’re going to be gunning for the title, looking bigger and better than ever.
“It’d be amazing to win a national championship, and that’s everyone’s dream to have one of them rings. I’m trying to get a scholarship after this year. That’s a big goal in life, to play college hockey, and I’d love to be a part of that life.”
