MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – When Owen Limback joined the Metro Jets’ defense corps last season, he came in and brought a workmanlike attitude that was contagious to his teammates.
Now entering his final season of junior hockey, the 2001-born Alpena, Mich., native is back with the Jets and has his eyes on team success for the 2021-22 USPHL season.
“It was pretty clear for me why I decided to come back for next season,” said Limback, who recorded 11 assists in 28 games in 2020-21. “I was left with a bitter taste following last year’s finish and I got one more shot to prove that we are that team. Obviously, that’s not how you want your season to end, especially with such a great group of guys. You’re given every opportunity that you need to become better on and off the ice with the Metro Jets. This also gives me a chance to fulfill my goal of playing collegiate hockey with the staff teaching me qualities that I can use going onto that next level. As a returner, you see what it takes to get there and what it takes to go all the way.
“It’s ride or die time.”
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville knows what Limback is capable of, and he’s excited to get Limback back in Metro colors at Mount Clemens Ice Arena.
“Owen returning this year is a huge piece to the puzzle,” Quenneville said. “He brings experience, character and high hockey IQ to our ‘D’ corps. He does a lot of little things well on both sides of the puck and was quietly one of our most consistent defensemen on the ice every night. I know he is excited to return, and we look forward to continue to help his exposure to NCAA hockey.”
Limback said he learned last season how to slow down the game.
“My approach changed in thinking ahead of the play, where to go and what to do, making it easier on myself,” said Limback. “I also think many areas of my game took a step forward due to the staff. Film breakdown, game-like scenarios in practice, and just straight-up communication on what I can do better within each situation were huge to my development. The staff has a ton of knowledge on the game, and I want to soak up every piece of information possible.
“This season, I just want to be able to help my team out as much as possible. I want to help everyone around me so we can create a better team atmosphere, creating buddies that will last forever. If everyone is on the same page, it will translate into better performance on the ice.”
Enjoying the last bit of summer before reporting to camp September 1, Limback said he has been spending time working and with friends and family as he gets prepared for the upcoming season “looking forward to see what’s in store for us this year.”
