FRASER, Mich. – Matt Bleim just wants to play hockey.
And this season, the 19-year-old Garden City native is excelling with the Metro Jets.
Truth be told, however, Bleim’s future looked a bit cloudy last spring.
“Well, I wasn’t sure where I was going to play hockey after last season ended,” Bleim said. “I knew the Jets had a good program and I wanted to be a part of it. I didn’t know much about the program other than the fact they went undefeated a couple seasons ago and they won a national championship this past year. So I obviously knew it was a good place to be.”
This year, Bleim is averaging nearly a point per game with 10 goals and six assists through 22 games.
“I think from a personal standpoint, I have had some ups and downs,” admitted Bleim. “From a team standpoint, I think we’re doing good. The MJDP is young and we are still figuring some things out, but I think we have a good group of guys that come to the rink every day and put in the work to get better. I think we’re making a name for ourselves and I hope we can make the playoffs.”
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville has seen Bleim put in the effort to grow his game, too.
“Matt really impressed us in our main camp and has earned every opportunity he has been given,” Quenneville said. “He has a great attitude and he is a great teammate to the guys. Even with his small frame, he isn’t afraid of taking pucks to the net and attacking offensively. He has had some big games this year and just needs to continue to focus on his consistency. I like how he is a sponge to details, and that will only continue to help him with his opportunities moving forward.”
Growing up, Bleim started playing hockey in his hometown at the age of four and said “I loved it ever since I stepped on the ice.”
Bleim added that he hopes to go as far as he can in hockey, possibly college hockey, but until then, he’s recognizing the unique opportunities and situation he has in Fraser.
“The Jets organization provides everything you need to get better,” Bleim said. “The standard is set very high and it makes you want to come to the rink every day. The coaching staff is top notch and always pushes us to improve our game and be a better player.”
