FRASER, Mich. – As a third-year player for the Metro Jets, Nick McDougall knows what the program offers and how players can benefit.

When it came time for McDougall to explore his options on where to play for the 2020-21 season, only one choice made 100 percent sense.

“This organization is one of the best, on and off the ice, focuses on building character first and foremost, and competes for national titles, year in and year out,” said McDougall, a 2001-born forward from Clinton Township, Mich. “Needless to say, it was an easy decision to come back.

“The reason why I think this organization is so prestigious is because of the people who are around it, starting from the top. We have a fantastic owner (Peter Cammick) who lets great coaches like ‘Q’ (Justin Quenneville) and Jamie (Lovell) help develop players’ skill and character. Our entire staff, including (assistant coaches) Dan Pszenyczny and Randy Wilson, cares about our development.”

Last season with the MJDP team, McDougall registered nine goals and 24 points in 41 games. The year prior, he tallied 15 goals and 19 points over 43 games. McDougall also has two goals and an assist in seven USPHL playoff games to his credit.

“I improved a lot on special teams last year through the video we studied as well as getting a lot of in-game experience,” said McDougall. “I’ll do whatever is asked of me. If I have to block a shot, then I’ll block a shot. If I have to mentor younger rookies, then I’ll mentor younger rookies. This organization has done so much for me that now I’m in the mindset of doing more for it because I know I’ll get more opportunities by buying in.”

Quenneville loves McDougall’s contagious attitude and will look for him to take his game to another level once the new season begins in September.

“I’ve known and worked with Nick since he was 14 years old,” said Quenneville. “There isn’t a kid in Detroit that wants to learn more about every detail of the game than him. Watching him develop over the years has been fun to watch but seeing him grow into the mature young man he is more rewarding.

“He does a lot of good things on the ice and is committed to the details. He has a little throwback in his game, and it shows all over the ice. He’s not afraid to get in lanes, get to dirty areas and stick his nose in battles. He has a quick release and continues to improve his game on both sides of the puck. I know he’s excited to get back and so are we.”

And with summer in full swing, McDougall said he has been “relaxing and taking it easy” while still training at the MAT with returning Jets players and prospective players. He also has an eye on next season with a goal to still be playing meaningful hockey in the spring.

“Last year wasn’t the year we hoped for, especially because of COVID-19, but as for this coming year, it’s all about improving ourselves day by day,” McDougall said. “Yeah, we have aspirations to make it back to nationals, but we can’t jump the gun and overlook the simple things that get us there year after year.”