MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich. – Alex Schaumburger proved to be a difference maker as a rookie last season with the Metro Jets.
Now with a year of junior hockey under his belt, the Canton, Mich., native wants to achieve great things in 2021-22 after recently re-signing with the Jets.
“Very hard not to come back when given the opportunity,” said Schaumburger, a forward who turns 19 on September 2. “Metro is the most fun and the most committed team to the process I’ve ever played on. Last year was very motivating and one of the reasons I’m continuing my hockey career.
“There is nothing like the hunt for a ring.”
During the 2020-21 season, Schaumburger posted 13 goals and 29 points in 36 games. He added one assist in three USPHL playoff games.
Stats aside, Schaumburger noted that other areas of his game took a step forward last season.
“My thinking for the game and my skill were two of the biggest areas I improved on,” Schaumburger said. “I came into Metro with a good amount of skill, but 100 percent of the credit goes to the coaches about my mindset for the game and how I think it. They also definitely helped out when it came to my skill and speed as well.
“As a returning player, I just want to be a good role model and have the same mindset as the vets did last year towards the rookies. Our vets last year were awesome, and I would like to be like one of them from a mindset perspective.”
Jets coach-GM Justin Quenneville has Schaumburger down for another positive season coming up once the new year kicks off next month.
“We have been blessed with Schaumburger brothers over the years (Matt played on the 2017-18 national championship team),” said Quenneville. “Alex deciding to return is a big piece to the puzzle here, and I know he is excited to get started. He has been training and skating all summer like so many other Jets, and noticeably has a jump in stride. He brings a high-end skill set and vision to the lineup. ‘Schaumie’ does a great job of slowing the game down and extending offense in areas most players don’t see.
“He was a big part of last year’s success and another player eager to get back that we look forward to working with.”
Overall, Schaumburger knows what’s at stake this season.
“From a personal standpoint, this is my dream,” said Schaumburger. “I’m living a dream right now and I can’t end a dream with a nightmare. Winning is the only option. Beating the best is the only option. I feel like from a team standpoint, having that ‘losing isn’t an option’ mindset will help us out as well.
“We will win a ring this year.”
