MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Alex Bedenko hopes to be the latest local talent to make an impact with the Metro Jets.

A late 2003-born winger from Macomb, Mich., Bedenko starred last season for the HoneyBaked 18U AAA team, the same team recent signee Devon Mastay played for as well.

Now, Bedenko will play closer to home with one of the USPHL’s powerhouse organizations.

“I met the coaches at a combine and went from there,” said Bedenko. “There is so much to like about the Jets program – the amount of exposure, the guys on the team are fun to be around, and the coaching staff has a goal in mind for each player’s future. They have proven to provide opportunities for so many players.”

Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville feels Bedenko can be a difference maker in 2021-22.

“Alex impressed us at the combine, but we have kept an eye on him since last year,” Quenneville said. “He is ready for this opportunity and will fit right in with this environment. The initial variables in his game are evident. He has a strong skill set and a quick release. We look forward to helping him develop and take advantage of this opportunity. So far, I have been very impressed on and off the ice.”

Bedenko said his strengths on the ice include scoring goals, especially coming off the wing. It’s those traits he hopes will lead to higher levels of the game.

“I want to play Tier II eventually and then move on to play NCAA Division I college hockey,” Bedenko said.