FRASER, Mich. – Coming to the Metro Jets with three years of junior hockey experience under his belt, Jack Mueller figures to be an impact player when he takes his spot on the blue line in September.
As a 2000 birth year, the 2020-21 USPHL season will be Mueller’s last in junior hockey, but one that he feels could be the most rewarding.
“My advisor knows Coach Q (Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville) and both had been in contact with each other,” said Mueller, a native of Sandusky, Ohio. “I was able to skate with some of the guys and see firsthand how they operate. I plan on finishing a strong last year of juniors and using that momentum to play four solid years of college hockey.”
The Jets are coming off a season that saw players make nine NCAA commitments and 17 total college commitments. Mueller looks to join that list of players and take advantage of the Jets’ platform.
Last season, Mueller skated for two teams in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League, putting up 11 assists in 49 games.
Quenneville has done his homework on Mueller and knows what he’s getting for the upcoming season.
“The hockey world is small, and we are fortunate that other great programs, coaches and hockey people are willing to guide players here because of our model,” said Quenneville. “We took the time to find out more about Jack and had several discussions about helping him get in front of more schools. Jack will not only benefit from this environment but will work to invest in himself this season. His junior experience will benefit him as he is a very driven player.
“We were impressed with his abilities and instincts on and off the puck. He does a lot of things well on the ice, and I know teams will have a hard time playing against him. We look forward to working with him and helping find the best college opportunity for him.”
Mueller noted that he couldn’t be happier signing with the Jets and is excited to see what lies ahead.
“The Jets are notorious for not only success during the season in the win column, but also in the ability to move players to the next level, whether it’s higher-level junior or college,” said Mueller. “Metro’s resume is beyond impressive for moving players to college. Scouts and coaches come to Metro looking for their next wave of talented players and good men.
“I have three prior years of junior experience along with an incredible urge to battle and compete to get better every day.”
