Jets reflect on positive experiences during 2013-14 season

WATERFORD, Mich. – If one were to ask anyone associated with the Metro Jets back in January if the North American 3 Hockey League playoffs were a possibility, there would have been reluctance, but the answer would have been a resounding ‘yes.’”

As the days went on and games were played, the standings watch started – it appeared the final two games of the regular season for the Jets against the Toledo Cherokee would ultimately decide the team’s playoff hopes.

And with two wins in those games, the Jets, who finished 22-24-2, were in.

The first game in Toledo, Jets’ coach Justin Quenneville pulled goaltender Kam Limburg late and with the game tied (yes, the same move Gordon Bombay pulls in the first “Mighty Ducks” movie) and Brad Hepler scored to win it for the Jets.

In the days leading up to the Toledo contests, again, ask anyone with the team their thoughts on the playoffs and there was no reluctance at all to answer affirmatively.

“Really since Christmas, we were playing playoff hockey,” said Jets’ coach Justin Quenneville, who took over in early October for Jason Cirone, who stepped down to start up the Midland University ACHA Division I college programs in Fremont, Neb. “The guys all bought in and came to the rink everyday to work. I'm proud of the way they responded and they deserved all the opportunities despite the season's distractions, call-ups and adversity.”

It’s been said that adversity breeds character and the Jets had enough of that this season as tragically, both Zack MacKay and Connor McLean lost their fathers during the season.

“We went through many positives this season with a couple being winning a few games many thought we wouldn't,” Limburg said. “But really the biggest thing was making the playoffs. We were able to come together and perform down the stretch and steal some games for crucial points.

”Our team was one of the closest I have ever been a part of. Even from the first weekend together, we all seemed to get along great. And with the loss of family members a couple of my teammates suffered, we all tried to support them as much as we could and came together for them.”

Couple that in with the fact that the Jets had one of the NA3HL’s youngest teams and that their better players advanced to higher levels (not a bad situation by any means, however) and one might see how much of a successful season this actually ended up being for the Jets.

Forwards Kevin Shand (Springfield/NAHL, Cedar Rapids/USHL) and Lucas Linville (Port Huron/NAHL) spent a short time with the Jets, but it only helped to get their confidence ramped up for the upper echelons of junior hockey. Limburg and fellow goalie Trevor Kalinowski had a cup of coffee in the NAHL (Limburg with Springfield, Kalinowski with Port Huron) and defenseman Carter Reid practiced with Springfield for a stretch.

Forward Kyle Shreve, who ended the 2012-13 season with the Jets, began this year with Springfield, along with defenseman James Roznowski, one of Metro’s first-round picks in last year’s draft, but both wound up playing in Waterford.

Roll everything into a ball and MacKay said he wouldn’t trade his time with the Jets for the world.

“The past two years have been a huge learning experience for me and I feel like my game has improved a ton,” said MacKay. “Being captain has given me more responsibility and I felt it made me more mature. The group of guys this season was the best and I love each and every one of them. We were close as a team, more so than I've been with any other team. I built a bond with some of the guys and I know we'll be friends until we’re old.

“My time with the Jets was huge. I went through a lot this season and it showed me that I could overcome whatever was thrown at me.”

MacKay took over as captain when Josh Beleski left to enlist in the Navy in early February.

And MacKay had a knack for drama, too.

Just days after the death of his father, Ron, MacKay decided to play against Cincinnati in the Jets’ home opener. The game was tied in the waning moments of the third period until yep, you guessed it, MacKay scored the game-winner and pointed skyward and then to his mother in the stands at Lakeland Arena in a very touching moment.

McLean scored some emotional goals at the NA3HL Showcase in suburban Chicago back in December after learning of his father Don's death.

So yes, adversity – the Jets’ were the epitome of it this year.

In goal, Limburg seemed to take over between the pipes and played both games in the playoffs against the Flint Jr. Generals – two tight games that didn’t go Metro’s way.

“I will take a lot from this season – the long bus rides, my stint in the NAHL, the early-morning practices, but the thing that I will remember most from this season is the last game of the regular season,” Limburg said. “We clinched the final playoff spot with that game and it was my first shutout of the year. The locker room after the game was electric and everyone was elated.”

Hepler led the team in scoring with 36 points and second-year veteran Alex Holm was the top goal-scorer with 16. Both Hepler and Holm are eligible to return next season, though Quenneville is certain each will get opportunities in the NAHL.

“I believe in building a successful model that finds balance in developing and winning,” said Quenneville. “None of this would be possible without a coaching staff and owner willing to provide that platform. We have that here with Metro. Given the success we had this season moving players, several of our guys will be looked at closely this offseason at NAHL camps. They deserve those looks and it wouldn’t surprise me if a few guys made it. This organization has been around 25 years and has moved on a great deal of players. I see that happening again this summer. With that said, the eligible returners have expressed interest in coming back, which allows us to build off this past year’s success. As a staff, we’ll address our biggest needs at the draft (Tuesday, June 11) and look at some free agents and get our tenders on board.

“I’d like to think this season was one that saw the guys leave everything they had on the ice and that’s how it should be. I’m proud of the way we came together and of the way they never quit. This will help us build for the future.”

Captain's Corner - putting the '13-14 season into perspective

Each week for the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On the playoff series last weekend against Flint.

The Flint games were probably the best hockey we've played this season. Both games were close until the end. I couldn't have asked more from the guys.

-- On his emotions after the Game 2 loss.

After the game, I just tried to hold composure. Knowing my junior hockey career was over was tough, but at the same time, I was excited to move forward. I'll miss that group of guys a lot, though. My time with the Jets was huge. I went through a lot this season and it showed me that I could overcome whatever was thrown at me. The past two years have been a huge learning experience with me and I feel like my game has improved a ton. Being captain gave me more responsibility and I felt it made me more mature.

-- On what he'll remember most about this season.

The group of guys this season was the best. I love each and every one of them. We were close as a team, more so than I've been with any other team. I built a bond with some guys and I know we'll be friends until we’re old.
 
-- On his plans for the 2014-15 season.

I've been talking to a couple NCAA D-III schools and keeping some other options in mind. I definitely want to continue playing in college.

Jets eliminated with 4-1 loss to Flint Saturday afternoon

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Flint Jr. Generals defeated the Metro Jets 4-1 Saturday afternoon at Lakeland Arena, winning their NA3HL playoff series in two straight games.

Brad Hepler scored the lone Jets' goal and goaltender Kam Limburg made 25 saves in suffering the defeat.

Flint had four different goal-scorers and went 2-for-4 on the power play, while Anders Franke finished with 17 saves in goal.

Next up for the Jets is the annual NA3HL draft on Tuesday, June 10.

Jr. Generals edge Jets in Game 1 Thursday night in Flint

FLINT, Mich. - The Metro Jets stayed with the Flint Jr. Generals for 60 minutes Thursday night, but ultimately fell to Flint 4-3 in Game 1 of their NA3HL first-round playoff matchup at Iceland Arenas.

Jets' captain Zack MacKay scored twice and Adam Lockner added the other goal for Metro.

Alex Holm and Kyle Shreve each had two assists and Kam Limburg made 27 saves in goal.

Flint's Josh Koepplinger netted the game-winner 6:19 into the third period after MacKay and Lockner had tied the game earlier in the period.

The two teams meet in Game 2 of the best-of-three series Saturday at 3 p.m. at Lakeland Arena.

Jets draw Flint to open NA3HL playoffs Thursday night

WATERFORD, Mich. – The North American 3 Hockey League playoffs begin this week for the Metro Jets, but there was a time just a few short weeks ago that playing in the post-season seemed like a pipe dream.

Battling the Toledo Cherokee for the fourth and final playoff spot in the East Division, the Jets had to sit and watch two weekends ago as the Cherokee lost three straight to Cleveland and Flint, setting up a two-game showdown last weekend.

With wins both nights, the Jets advance to play Flint, one of the top teams in all of the NA3HL, in the first round of the playoffs.

Friday night in Toledo, the two teams were tied late in the third period. With a loss or a tie, the Jets would have been eliminated.

Metro coach Justin Quenneville elected to pull goaltender Kam Limburg in the final minute and the move paid off as Brad Hepler scored to lift the Jets to a 3-2 win.

“It’s been our mentality here from Christmas on that this isn’t a regular season for us down the stretch – these are our playoffs,” Quenneville said. “We have had to play playoff hockey, so everyday we took that approach coming to the rink and how we prepared and it kept building as the season went on and realistically, took the same approach each day about how this was do or die for us each game. The players all bought in and I’m proud of them. They deserve this.”

Then Saturday night at Lakeland Arena, the Jets (22-24-2) were on a mission and dominated Toledo in a 5-0 win that officially clinched the final playoff berth.

Both Metro and Toledo finished the season with 46 points, but the Jets held the tiebreaker with more wins (22) than Toledo (20).

Limburg earned the win Saturday night with 16 saves for the shutout and looks to start Game 1 versus Flint.

“Yeah, not a bad time to get his first shutout of the season,” quipped Quenneville. “My policy all season has been if you win, you’re in. It’s made us more competitive in that area of our depth chart, so Kam deserves that opportunity and you talk about the right time for the first shutout of the year in the most important game, so I’m proud of him, but obviously, we need him to keep playing the same way and bring us the same effort.”

The first round against Flint is a best-of-three series starting Thursday night in Flint at Iceland Arenas (pictured) at 8 p.m., continuing Saturday afternoon at Lakeland at 3 p.m. and, if necessary, Sunday afternoon in Flint at 2 p.m.

Jets’ captain Zack MacKay said his team has confidence going into Flint.

“We’re ready for Flint – we’ve been playing playoff hockey the past six games or so,” MacKay said. “We’re going to be prepared. We’ve had good games there (Iceland) and the last game there, it was 1-1 until the third period and we’ve played some close games there.”

Flint, which won the East outright and posted a 42-4-2 record (second in all of the NA3HL to North Iowa), won all eight meetings this season against the Jets.

"Everyone starts at zeroes in the playoffs," Quenneville said. "We're excited about the opportunity to play them. We know it is going to be difficult, but that's how it should be. We are no longer playing for points or standings, just wins, plain and simple.

“Flint is a skilled and experienced team. They are well-coached and have had a lot of success during the season for a reason. We are excited about the matchup, but the key for us will be to stay focused and disciplined more than anything.”

All playoff games will be on www.fasthockey.com. 

Captain's Corner - Toledo, NA3HL playoffs, Kam Limburg

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On what Saturday's win over Toledo to make the playoffs meant to him.

It meant a lot – could have meant the end to my junior career. Stuff like that really makes you motivated to play and everybody brought it. If we play like this against Flint, there’s no way we’re not going to win.

-- On vibes he had before and during the game.

I actually thought we had a really bad warmup, but (for the game), we brought it and that’s all that really matters. As long as we’re playing the game we’re supposed to, it doesn’t really matter how we warmed up.

-- On his thoughts after the Jets scored first and Kam Limburg's shutout.

I got a little worried, actually. We’re usually not too good with first-goal leads, but we brought it. Limburg has been playing great lately. I drove with him (Friday night) and (Saturday’s game) was nothing out of the ordinary for him. He usually brings it.

Jets blank Toledo Saturday, clinch NA3HL playoff berth

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Metro Jets have been in playoff mode the better part of the last two weeks and it paid off Saturday night as the Jets clinched the fourth and final playoff spot in the East Division with a 5-0 shutout of the Toledo Cherokee at Lakeland Arena.

The Jets and Cherokee tied with 46 points, but Metro gains the playoff spot by virtue of more wins (22) than Toledo (20).

"Top to bottom, I feel like that was our best 60-minute effort of the year," said Jets' coach Justin Quenneville. "Like I tell the guys everyday, we have to look at this season as a progressive chart moving upward and not only did they work hard, but they bought in, kept it simple and were rewarded for their decisions."

Cooper McLean scored twice with an assist for the Jets, while Brad Hepler, Kyle Shreve and Cody Jones all tallied a goal and an assist in the win.

Jets' goaltender Kam Limburg stopped all 16 shots between the pipes.

"Not a bad time to get his first shutout of the season," quipped Quenneville.

Aaron Callan made 26 saves for the Cherokee.

The Jets (22-24-2) move on to play the Flint Jr. Generals in the first round of the playoffs. A schedule will be released early next week.

 "Everyone starts at zeroes in the playoffs," Quenneville said. "We're excited about the opportunity to play them - you want to play against the best and you want to beat the best."

Flint won all eight meetings this season against the Jets.

Jets beat Toledo in dramatic fashion, maintain hope for playoffs

TOLEDO, Ohio - Brad Hepler scored in the final with the goalie pulled and the score tied to lift the Metro Jets to a thrilling 3-2 win over the Toledo Cherokee Friday night at the Team Toledo Ice House.

The stakes get even bigger as the winner of Saturday night's regular-season finale at Lakeland Arena in Waterford between Metro and Toledo gets the final playoff berth in the East Division.

Cooper McLean scored in the first period and Cam Bruff tallied his first of the season in the second for the Jets, while Kam Limburg stopped 29 shots between the pipes.

Both teams have played 47 games and Toledo has 46 points to Metro's 44, but if the Jets win, they would get the tie-breaker based on more overall wins during the regular season. Toledo is 20-21-6 and the Jets are 21-24-2.

 Game time Saturday night is set for 7:50 p.m.

Captain's Corner - Toledo this weekend, NA3HL playoffs, pressure

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On checking Toledo's three games last weekend and seeing the Cherokee lose all three.

Last weekend was very stressful, but we were all thankful the cards fell into place and allowed us a chance to really put everything out on the ice this weekend and make our playoff push.

-- On what the message has been this week around the team.

The message of the week was just that we all know what's at stake and we know what needs to be done. We can't let them (Toledo) even take us to overtime or else it's all over. If we can come out with a regulation win on Friday, there's no doubt we won't make playoffs.

-- On the pressure of this weekend.

These two games are huge and I don't think I've ever played games that had more at stake than Friday. My last season of my junior career is at the hands of two games, whether it continues or not is up to me and the rest of the Jets and I think it will.

Dempsey enjoying rookie season with Jets, exposure from NA3HL

WATERFORD, Mich. – Matt Dempsey is the perfect example of what the North American Hockey League’s advancement model is all about.

Playing last season in the North American Prospects Hockey League for the Detroit Falcons, the Chesterfield, Mich., native joined the Metro Jets of the North American 3 Hockey League this year and hopes to complete the trifecta next year in the NAHL.

For now, though, the 18-year-old forward is focused on fine-tuning his skill set with the Jets.

“Last year in the NAPHL, the thing that prepared me most for juniors was the pace and the physicality of that league,” Dempsey said. “I knew the NA3 was good. I had watched the games at some of the showcases and was impressed by the level of play.

“I feel that I have become faster overall this season and I’ve also become smarter and more patient with the puck. I’ve had opportunities this year to play on a line with good players (Josh Beleski and Alex Holm mostly) that I have learned a lot from.”

This season, Dempsey has potted six goals and 14 assists for 20 points in 45 games and praised the Metro coaching staff of head coach Justin Quenneville and assistants Tom Krajewski and Randy Wilson.

“The coaching staff has been great,” said Dempsey. “Overall, they have provided me a lot of direction and tweaked my game so that I continue to improve personally and so that we grow as a team.”

Going into this weekend’s home-and-home series with the Toledo Cherokee with the fourth and final East Division playoff spot on the line, Dempsey’s outlook is succinct.

”The team is very focused,” Dempsey said. “We all know what we need to do in order to get the big wins this weekend.”

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD 

After sitting idle last weekend, the Jets saw Toledo lose all three games (one to Cleveland, two to Flint) to set up the two-game showdown this weekend.

If the Jets win both games against Toledo in regulation time, they get fourth place in the NA3HL East and the last playoff berth by virtue of more victories than the Cherokee.

Game time is 7 p.m. Friday night in Toledo and then 7:50 p.m. Saturday night at Lakeland Arena.

JET STREAKS 

Four players – defensemen Brad Hepler and Adam Lockner and forwards Holm and Kyle Downey – have played in all 46 games this season for the Jets.

Every Jets’ player has recorded at least one point this season, save for forward Cam Bruff, defenseman Anthony Catalina and goaltenders Kam Limburg and Davide Mantovani. Goalie Trevor Kalinowski has two assists this year.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Wylie Rogers, a goaltender on the Jets’ 2002 Silver Cup-winning Junior B national championship team, has hung up the skates and is now in his second season as a volunteer assistant coach at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks.

Rogers, a 28-year-old Fairbanks native, played four years at the school from 2004-08 before playing three years with the Central Hockey League’s Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees and one year in the Netherlands.

In addition to the Jets, where he went 22-5-0 with a 1.90 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage, Rogers also played junior hockey with the Fairbanks Ice Dogs (then with the America West Hockey League), Victoria Salsa of the British Columbia Hockey League and seven games with the U.S. National Team Development Program.

Second-year Jets' defenseman Krajewski improving overall game

WATERFORD, Mich. – T.J. Krajewski is literally immersed in hockey 24/7.

A second-year defenseman with the Metro Jets, Krajewski works each day to progress his game and make strides, all while taking instruction from the Jets’ coaching staff.

One of the Jets’ assistant coaches is Krajewski’s father, Tom, a longtime youth hockey coach in Michigan.

According to the younger Krajewski, playing for his dad has never been a problem and in fact, is quite a privilege.

“It has been fairly easy,” said the 19-year-old from Macomb, Mich. “He doesn't really say much to me on the bench, but when he does, it's usually helpful and he explains what I could have done. He is just ‘Coach’ to me all the time – I rarely call him dad. When the boys come over, he is still just Coach. He is friends with everyone on the team and everybody loves him.”

Last year as a rookie with the Jets, Krajewski tallied two goals and 11 points in 35 games and this year, has recorded four goals and 12 points over 39 games.

Last offseason, Krajewski attempted to crack a North American Hockey League lineup, but when that fell through, it was a win-win situation to come back and skate in Waterford.

“I feel like I have gotten a lot faster in the last two seasons and have been able to make decisions faster on the ice,” Krajewski said. “Coach Q (Jets’ head coach Justin Quenneville) has his own gym (Michigan Athletic Training in Fraser) that me and fellow teammates Davide Mantovani and Carter Reid work out at three times a week. (Quenneville) has helped me out with my first three steps, which are now more explosive. Q is also a great coach that wants to see everyone move up to the NAHL. He really has helped me with my defensive and offensive abilities.”

Krajewski also talked of the numerous opportunities to get noticed by playing in the NA3HL.

“There are always some scouts at our games every time we play,” explained Krajewski. “When we went to the showcase in Chicago (last November), there were scouts everywhere and even though we struggled in the showcase a bit, there were still scouts at our games and Q always tries to sell us to the scouts that come.”

Those scouts will also have a say where Krajewski plays for the 2014-15 season, but for now, the priorities lie in getting Metro into the post-season.

”My short-term goals as of right now are to make playoffs and play for the Silver Cup,” said Krajewski. “Long-term is to play college hockey and move on from there.”

JET STREAKS 

The Jets have won 10 games at Lakeland Arena and 10 games on the road this season.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Jack McCoy played with the Jets during the team’s early years and has worked his way up to be an on-ice official at the American Hockey League level.

McCoy, a Livonia, Mich., native who played NCAA Division III college hockey at Oswego State in the SUNYAC, has also worked as an on-ice official in the Ontario Hockey League, ECHL, International Hockey League and United Hockey League.

Captain's Corner - Pittsburgh shootout, time off, watching Toledo

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On losing Saturday in Pittsburgh, then winning in a shootout Sunday.

The win was big and we needed it – the points, the confidence. Just a step closer to a playoff spot.

-- On having the upcoming weekend off.

Having a weekend off will be a much-needed break for the guys, especially those who played in the NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament – seven games in nine days took a lot out of us. Watching the scores of the Toledo games this weekend will be tough, but we'll all be hoping for the best to help our situation. We're all hoping the cards fall into place for all situations out of our hands.

-- On practice this week.

Practice will be good and it should have us more than ready for our last games against Toledo. The rest is up to us – nobody's going to hand it to us.

Metro keeps playoff hopes alive, beats Pittsburgh in shootout

PITTSBURGH - Sunday's game between the Metro Jets and Pittsburgh Vengeance couldn't be solved in 60 minutes of regulation or a five-minute overtime.

Dramatically, the Jets came away with a 2-1 shootout win as goaltender Kam Limburg stopped all four Vengeance shooters in the shootout.

Cooper McLean scored the regulation goal for the Jets and Limburg stopped 27 shots in his 65 minutes of work.

Pittsburgh goalie Jason Kumpfmiller made 34 saves at the other end.

The Jets (20-24-2) are still battling the Toledo Cherokee for the fourth and final East Division playoff spot. Metro is idle next weekend, but Toledo plays three games - one against Cleveland and two against Flint.

After next weekend, the Jets and Cherokee will each have played 46 games before playing one another March 7-8 in a home-and-home series that could decide the final playoff berth.

Shreve scores first goal, but Jets lose 3-1 in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH - Kyle Shreve scored the game's first goal for the Metro Jets, but the Pittsburgh Vengeance notched the next three en route to a 3-1 win over the Jets Saturday night at Blade Runners USA.

Metro goaltender Trevor Kalinowski stopped 18 shots through 58:06 before Davide Mantovani played 25 seconds and turned aside the only shot he faced.

Jason Kumpfmiller made 32 saves to get the win for the Vengeance.

The two teams wrap up their weekend series Sunday at noon.

Metro rookie Baranoski playing season with heavy heart

WATERFORD, Mich. – You might say Travis Baranoski went on a roller coaster ride last summer without ever traveling to Cedar Point.

First, he graduated from East Grand Rapids High School after playing on the school’s varsity hockey team all four years.

Then he was drafted by the Metro Jets in the ninth round (152nd overall) of the North American 3 Hockey League draft.

Baranoski looked to have everything going for him – until the fateful morning of Aug. 18, the day he was supposed to be moving away from home to play for the Jets.

Keeland Johns, Baranoski’s best friend, was tragically killed by a drunk driver that morning, leaving a void in Baranoski’s life, but giving him motivation to get to Waterford and make an impact with the Jets.

“This season is dedicated to Keeland,” said a still-emotional Baranoski. “He was No. 25 in high school and I wear that number in honor of him.

”He came to East Grand Rapids when he was a freshman and we were always friends, but then our senior year, we became really close and we probably didn't go more than 2-3 days at a time without seeing each other last summer.”

Earlier this season, Keeland’s mother, Kriste Johns-Weber, took in a Jets’ game and put a smile on Baranoski’s face in the process (pictured above).

”My friends and I go over to their house a lot and talk to her as often as possible,” explained Baranoski. “And I know she goes to a lot of East hockey games. We just try and keep her social and make sure she knows she's not alone.”

With the Jets, Baranoski has tallied four goals and four assists in 43 games this season and the 18-year-old Walker, Mich., native attributes his development and adjustment to the NA3HL level to a number of different aspects.

“I think the area my game has improved the most is my speed,” Baranoski said. “I'm way faster than I was last year and I credit that to our gym memberships at Fitness 19. We've put in a lot of work there and it's showing in my game. The coaches have helped me a lot in my development. They've pointed out a lot of small habits that hurt me as a player that prior coaches had not and it has helped me become a smarter hockey player and has really simplified the game for me.”

During the spring of 2013, Baranoski was introduced to Metro assistant coach Randy Wilson by Todd Bell, a Grand Rapids-area youth hockey coach and Baranoski went down to Waterford for a handful of spring conditioning skates with the club and was subsequently drafted in June.

“I think playing at East Grand Rapids helped me out a lot in preparing for this season,” said Baranoski, who lives with extended family in Rochester, Mich. “I played all four years and that's where I really learned to focus on playing the defensive zone and focusing on the details. It really made me the player I am today.

“As for the NA3, I think it provides a lot more exposure than most people give it credit for. I've personally been talked to by a few schools and I know my teammates have been talked to by more. I've also watched a lot of my teammates get opportunities at higher level such as Kevin Shand (NAHL’s Springfield Jr. Blues, USHL’s Cedar Rapids RoughRiders) and Lucas Linville (NAHL’s Port Huron Fighting Falcons), which is really cool to see.”

And on that note, Baranoski has his eye on moving up next season, but those opportunities will come.

Right now, his priorities are right where they should be.

”My short-term goals are to finish the season strong and do anything I can to help my teammates and the team overall to succeed,” said Baranoski. “Personally in the long term, my goal is to move up, but at this time I'm trying to focus on this team and this season.”

All while knowing that the name on the front of the jersey matters most, the number on the back is just as special.

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD 

Last weekend, the Jets were looking for four points to gain ground in their hunt for a playoff spot, but came up with only two points.

T.J. Krajewski's goal at 13:36 of the third period snapped a 1-1 tie and the Jets held on to defeat the Toledo Cherokee 2-1 Friday night at the Team Toledo Ice House.

Kyle Shreve also scored for Metro and captain Zack MacKay assisted on both goals.

Jets' goaltender Kam Limburg made 38 saves between the pipes.

Metro jumped out to a 3-0 advantage, but lost the lead and the game in a 4-3 loss Saturday night to the Cherokee at Lakeland Arena.

Dominic Antonelli's goal at 1:12 of the third period broke the 3-3 tie and put the Cherokee ahead to stay.

Alex Holm, James Roznowski and MacKay scored for the Jets, while Limburg stopped 23 shots between the pipes.

With the loss, the Jets are six points behind Toledo for the fourth and final playoff berth in the East Division. Metro has four games remaining, while Toledo has six.

“The mood is still loose and fun like it has been all year, but it sort of goes unsaid that there is a big, heightened sense of urgency,” said Baranoski. “We don't necessarily talk about it. We just understand what the task is and what it calls for us to do. We want to make the playoffs and we know we need to play urgently, but we also know we can't play nervous and up-tight, so we keep it loose as much as we can.”

The Jets (19-23-2) next travel to Pittsburgh for two with the Vengeance this weekend at Blade Runners USA. Game time is 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and then a noon start on Sunday.

“With the final road trip coming up, I'm hoping it helps bring everyone closer and really get everyone on the same page,” MacKay said. “A sweep on the road would be huge for us and I'm sure we can do it if we can play two games for the full 60 minutes.”

JET STREAKS 

Five Jets took part in the NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament this week at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Mich.

The Jets were represented on Team East by MacKay and defensemen Brad Hepler and Carter Reid, while Holm and Shreve played for Team South.

Monday, MacKay had two assists in Team East's 6-3 win over Team South and Shreve scored for Team South, on a secondary assist from Holm.

Then on Tuesday, Reid had an assist on the East’s lone goal in a 9-1 loss to Team West, while Shreve scored again in Team South’s 6-4 loss to Team Central.

Finishing up on Wednesday, Reid scored and MacKay picked up an assist as Team Central downed Team East 6-4. Shreve then scored for the third game in a row, but Team South was routed 8-1 by Team West.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Cam Bazin, who was a forward with the Jets during the 2010-11 and 2011-12 seasons, hung up the skates in 2012 to play college lacrosse at Olivet College, located some 30 miles south of Lansing and 125 miles west of Detroit in Olivet, Mich.

Last season, the 21-year-old Troy, Mich., native had a record-setting season for the Comets.

In 2012-13, Bazin earned second-team All-MIAA honors and helped Olivet post a 10-7 record in its inaugural season of men’s lacrosse. He led team in virtually every statistical category – goals (69), points (99), shots (208), shots on-goal (127), man-up goals (10) and groundballs (144).

Bazin also now holds single-game school records for points (11), goals (9), shots (19) and groundballs (15), while his 69 goals tied for the lead among all NCAA Division III men’s lacrosse players and was second in goals per game (4.06) and fourth in points per game (5.82).

In 2010-11, Bazin tallied three goals and 10 points in 36 games with the Jets and the following year, rang up seven goals and 20 points in 32 games.

Captain's Corner - Toledo, NA3HL Top Prospects, Pittsburgh

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On splitting with Toledo, the team they are chasing for the final East Division playoff berth, this past weekend.

Friday’s win was much needed, while the loss Saturday won't make or break us getting a playoff spot – it was still a huge disappointment.

-- On the chances of still making the NA3HL playoffs.

The team knows what's needed from here on out and at this point, it's do or die. We could possibly get away with one loss, but that would put a lot of weight on our shoulders from there on out.

-- On his role as captain at this stage of the season.

As captain, I really need to keep the team focused and motivated on and off the ice. I try to lead by example – a big hit, a solid penalty kill, a shorthanded goal, anything I can do.

-- On playing in the NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament this week with teammates Kyle Shreve, Alex Holm, Carter Reid and Brad Hepler.

This week at Top Prospects, we all hope to play well and play our game, keeping it simple and sticking to our strengths. Each one of us would like to get noticed at the showcase, but I'm sure so would everyone else. Keeping it simple would likely help us stick out.

-- On next weekend's road trip to Pittsburgh.

With the final road trip coming up, I'm hoping it helps bring everyone closer and really get everyone on the same page. A sweep on the road would be huge for us and I'm sure we can do it if we can play two games for the full 60 minutes.

Jets' playoff hopes take step back, lose Saturday to Cherokee

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Metro Jets jumped out to a 3-0 advantage, but lost the lead and the game in a 4-3 loss Saturday night to the Toledo Cherokee at Lakeland Arena.

Dominic Antonelli's goal at 1:12 of the third period snapped the 3-3 tie and put the Cherokee ahead to stay.

Alex Holm, James Roznowski and captain Zack MacKay scored for the Jets, while Kam Limburg stopped 23 shots between the pipes.

With the loss, the Jets are six points behind Toledo for the fourth and final playoff berth in the East Division. Metro has four games remaining, while Toledo has six.

The Jets (19-23-2) next travel to Pittsburgh for two with the Vengeance Feb. 22-23 at Blade Runners USA. Game time is 7:30 p.m. next Saturday and then noon Sunday.

Prior to that, five Jets will participate in the NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament from Feb. 17-19 at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Mich.

The Jets will be represented on Team East by MacKay and defensemen Brad Hepler and Carter Reid, while Holm and fellow forward Kyle Shreve will play for Team South.

Krajewski, Limburg lift Jets past Cherokee Friday night

TOLEDO, Ohio - T.J. Krajewski's goal at 13:36 of the third period snapped a 1-1 tie and the Metro Jets held on to defeat the Toledo Cherokee 2-1 Friday night at the Team Toledo Ice House.

With the win, the Jets move to within four points of fourth-place Toledo for the final East Division playoff berth.

Kyle Shreve also scored for Metro and captain Zack MacKay assisted on both goals.

Jets' goaltender Kam Limburg made 38 saves between the pipes.

The two teams play again Saturday night back at Lakeland Arena. Game time is set for 7:50 p.m.

Jets' rookie forward Downey continuing to make progress

WATERFORD, Mich. – Kyle Downey found out about life-changing events the way most people do nowadays – through social media.

Last summer, the 2013 Plymouth Salem High School graduate was drafted by the Metro Jets in the fifth round (75th overall) of the North American 3 Hockey League draft that is conducted online.

According to Downey, he suspected that may happen.

“The Jets’ Twitter account (@MetroJetsHockey) tweeted that I got drafted here,” remembered Downey, a 19-year-old native of Canton, Mich. “I was in contact with (Jets’ assistant coach) Randy Wilson and knew there was a good chance I was going to end up here with Metro. I knew very little about the Jets coming into the year. As for the league, my high school coach, Ryan Ossenmacher, educated me about the NA3 a decent amount.”

Downey has proven to be a very durable player for the Jets as he’s just a handful of players to have seen the ice in all 42 games. He has tallied six goals and six assists for 12 points so far.

“I believe my overall game has improved, especially from a mental aspect,” said Downey. “Recently, I've been focusing more on the little things and keeping the game simple. The coaching staff we have here is pretty great and they all know a lot about the game. They've taught me some little things about the game that may not seem like much, but it really makes a big difference.”

Having a solid coaching staff is nothing new for Downey, who praised his coaches at Salem.

“Playing for Salem gave me a good foundation of the player I am today,” beamed Downey, who captained Salem in 2012-13. “The coaching staff at Salem is one of the best in the state in my opinion and I believe I wouldn't be the player I am today without them.”

Downey is hoping for a career in hockey long after his days in Waterford have ended.

“My short-term and long-term goals are pretty similar,” explained Downey. “I want to continue to get better and play the game I love. I'm very lucky to have an opportunity to do what I love everyday and I want to continue to for as long as possible.”

He also wants to extend the current season. The Jets are in a dogfight for the final playoff spot in the East Division with the Toledo Cherokee.

”We want to win and if we win, we go to the playoffs,” said Downey. “Like Coach Q (Justin Quenneville) always says, ‘It's not how you start, it's how you finish.’ I don't think anyone is willing to pack it in and throw in the towel on this season.”

JET STREAKS 

The Jets signed defenseman Anthony Catalina prior to last weekend and released defenseman Nate Phillips to clear a roster spot.

Catalina is a 19-year-old native of Chelsea, Mich. He hadn’t played competitive hockey since graduating from Chelsea High School in 2012, where he was teammates with current Jets’ leading scorer and fellow defenseman Brad Hepler.

Last weekend, Catalina skated a few shifts on defense with Hepler and also saw time at forward.

After his senior season of 2011-12, Catalina garnered First Team All-State honors from the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches' Association.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Former Jets’ forward Kevin Shand, who played eight games with the team earlier this season, is now playing for the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders of the United States Hockey League.

Shand, an 18-year-old native of Saline, Mich., tallied eight goals and 17 points for the Jets in between stints with the North American Hockey League’s Springfield Jr. Blues.

In four games with the RoughRiders, Shand has recorded one assist. With Springfield, Shand registered eight goals and 10 assists for 18 points in 21 games.

Captain's Corner - Cleveland split, Q's message, Toledo

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On splitting at Cleveland this past weekend.

Sunday was a disappointment. In my opinion, I feel we had more than enough chances to win, but we just couldn't seem to find the back of the net. It's nothing to be upset about and we just need to prepare for the upcoming games. We just need to play like we did, except work harder.

-- On what coach Justin Quenneville's daily message has been lately.

’Q’ has been telling us that we need to understand how important the games are. If we don't figure it out soon, it'll be too late.

-- On the importance of this coming weekend's games with Toledo, the team the Jets are chasing for the final playoff berth in the East Division.

Four points are a must and on top of that, we have to win in regulation. Any win is good, but to have a playoff push, we can't allow them any points.

Cleveland doubles up Metro Sunday afternoon to gain split

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio - The Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks earned a weekend split with the Metro Jets after a 4-2 win Sunday afternoon at the Cleveland Heights Community Center.

Kyle Downey and Kyle Shreve scored for the Jets and Trevor Kalinowski finished with 24 saves between the pipes.

The Jets (18-22-2) next play a home-and-home series with the Toledo Cherokee, starting Friday night in Toledo and concluding Saturday night at Lakeland Arena for a 7:50 p.m. puck drop.

Metro is just six points behind the Cherokee for the final playoff spot in the East Division, but Toledo has three games in-hand.

Jets down Jr. Lumberjacks in Saturday night shootout

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, Ohio - Three periods of regulation and an overtime session were not enough to settle matters as the Metro Jets defeated the Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks in a shootout 4-3 Saturday night at the Cleveland Heights Community Center.

T.J. Krajewski's shootout winner was the difference.

Zach Kopinski scored twice in regulation for the Jets, while Kyle Shreve added a goal and an assist.

Trevor Kalinowski finished with 32 saves for the win between the pipes.

For Cleveland, Matt Whipper had two goals and an assist.

The two teams wrap up their weekend series Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Lockner making strides with Jets after taking '12-13 off

WATERFORD, Mich. – And to think that Adam Lockner didn’t play competitive hockey at all last season.

After playing for Farmington High School and graduating in 2012, Lockner suffered an injury in the offseason and sat out the 2012-13 season and focused on school.

Then came the summer of 2013.

“I wasn't playing anywhere and really just wanted to skate,” said the 19-year-old defenseman from Farmington Hills, Mich. “Cooper (McLean) was telling me that the (Metro Jets) were short guys and needed defensemen, so I came to a practice a couple weeks before the season started and was offered a spot.”

McLean, a close friend of Lockner’s, had signed a tender agreement with the Jets during the 2012-13 season at Farmington High and is also a rookie this year with Metro.

”I didn't know much about the Jets, but as the North American 3 Hockey League, I had a few friends that played for other teams and told me it's competitive and they had a lot of fun in the NA3,” said Lockner. “Not playing last year made it tough to just start back up, but I think I have come a long way. I would say my confidence has really improved, helping me play more aggressive.

“All of the coaches (with the Jets) have really helped me a lot. As I said, it was tough not playing last year, but they've done a great job helping me get my legs back and gaining confidence.”

Lockner has proven to be a durable skater this season, playing in all 40 games and scoring one goal with six assists for seven points.

With one more year of junior hockey eligibility remaining after this year, Lockner is hoping for a chance to move up next season and his play as of late when paired with James Roznowski insists he would be ready.

“Quite a few guys from our team alone have had a chance to go to North American Hockey League practices and a couple have moved on and played in games,” Lockner said. “The NA3 is a lot better than people think. More and more players from the NA3 are getting opportunities at higher levels.”

From a team standpoint, it’s crunch time with the Jets clinging to slim hopes of making the league playoffs. Lockner wants to do all he can to extend the season and in the long run, extend his career.

”With eight games left and just barely out of playoffs, we know we have to get these wins,” said Lockner. “We are all excited for these next eight games. We just need to keep working hard and hope it pays off here in the end. I just want to keep playing hard and do my part to help the team get to playoffs and also to continue to go to school. My long-term goals are to continue to develop my game to move on to the next level and ultimately, play college hockey.

“No matter what happens, hockey will always be a part of my life.”

JET STREAKS 

Metro defenseman and leading scorer Brad Hepler started the 2012-13 season in Cleveland before being acquired in January 2013 for forward Jeff Monfils.

Last week, the NA3HL announced the rosters for the NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament that will be held from Feb. 17-19 at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Mich. The Jets will be represented on Team East by forward and captain Zack MacKay and defensemen Carter Reid and Hepler, while forwards Kyle Shreve and Alex Holm will play for Team South.

Just two more Jets’ regular-season games at home remain this season – Saturday, Feb. 15 against the Toledo Cherokee and Saturday, March 8, also against Toledo.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Monfils, who came to the Jets from Cleveland in a summer 2012 trade, is now in his freshman season at ACHA Division I Niagara University.

A 21-year-old native of Washington, Mich., Monfils has tallied three goals in 22 games this season for the Purple Eagles.

Last season between the Jets and Cleveland, Monfils recorded 13 goals and 20 assists (nine goals and 24 points with the Jets) for 33 points in 43 games.

Collins' four-goal game lifts Mountain Cats past Jets Sunday

FRASER, Mich. - Zach Collins scored four goals and added a pair of assists as the Michigan Mountain Cats defeated the Metro Jets 9-5 Sunday afternoon at Fraser Hockeyland to gain a split in the two teams' home-and-home weekend series.

Kade Morrison added a goal and three assists and netminder Joe Lopez stopped 44 shots for the Mountain Cats.

For the Jets, Kyle Shreve scored two goals, while Kyle Downey had a goal and an assist and Cooper McLean and T.J. Krajewski scored one apiece.

Metro goaltenders Kam Limburg and Trevor Kalinowski combined to make 22 saves.

Next action for the Jets (17-21-2) is next weekend on the road against the Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks. Game time Saturday is 5:30 p.m. and then Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Jets hang on to nip Mountain Cats Saturday night

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Metro Jets jumped out to a 2-0 lead and held on for a 2-1 win over the Michigan Mountain Cats Saturday night at Lakeland Arena in the first end of a home-and-home series.

Alex Holm and Cody Jones scored for the Jets.

Metro goalie Kam Limburg stopped 20 shots to earn the win in goal.

The two teams wrap up their weekend set Sunday afternoon at 1:45 p.m. at Fraser Hockeyland.

Jets' goalie Limburg playing with confidence after taste of NAHL

WATERFORD, Mich. – Kam Limburg was singing the blues two weekends ago, but in a good way.

After all, getting a call-up to the Springfield Jr. Blues of the North American Hockey League is a feather in Limburg’s goalie helmet, but not only did the Metro Jets’ rookie get the call-up, he played the last 31:46 of the Jr. Blues game Jan. 18 against the Topeka RoadRunners, a 6-1 loss for Springfield.

Never the less, the experience Limburg went through in his week of practice with the Jr. Blues and his game action is something he can build on the rest of this season in Waterford.

“I went to Springfield’s main camp over the summer and did well and they have been checking in on me periodically throughout the season,” said Limburg, an 18-year-old product of Howell, Mich. “A couple days before I went there, one of the goalies was reported to be injured and they needed a goalie to fill in while he was out, so they decided to give me the call.”

On Jan. 18, Limburg came on in relief of stating netminder Stefanos Lekkas and stopped 15 of 19 shots.

“The players and staff were very welcoming to me when I arrived,” Limburg said. “I got in the locker room and most of the guys came up to me and introduced themselves and tried to include in as much as they could. When I got the nod on Saturday night, to be honest, I was a little nervous. Springfield had a pretty big crowd that night and as I was skating to the net I received a lot chirps from the Topeka bench. That being said, once I made the first save I felt very comfortable out there. I thought I ended up playing well for my first appearance.”

Immediately, Limburg noticed the big jump from the North American 3 Hockey League to the NAHL.

“I think the biggest change between the NA3 and the NA, as a goalie, was the speed,” Limburg said. “The players were faster, the passes were faster and crisper and the release on the shots was quicker. The Springfield coaches said that they like what they saw from me over the week I was there and that they think I am progressing well this season.”

In Waterford, Limburg has battled for playing time all season with veteran Trevor Kalinowski and fellow rookie Davide Mantovani and has posted a 5-9-0 record with a 3.56 goals-against average and a .881 save percentage.

“I think the experience I had in Springfield was great and I definitely gained some confidence from it,” said Limburg. “It helped me realize that I have more time on the ice than I previously thought. Trevor and Davide have been playing well lately, so I think it will continue to be good competition between the three of us in practice and when it comes to game time.”

And even as the Jets have had to shuffle their lineup lately with a number of NAHL call-ups, head coach Justin Quenneville calls that situation a good problem to have.

“I believe that there is a healthy balance to developing players, promoting them and winning hockey games,” Quenneville said. “I don’t buy when coaches use that as a crutch to say that they ‘lost’ a player. Our job as coaches is to challenge our players and develop them. When players are ready, they should be playing at a higher level because they deserve so and coaches should never hold them back, plain and simple.

“I think we’re a hard-working team that plays an in-your-face style. We want to give ourselves a chance to win every night and to do that, we have to be hard to play against and make good decisions with the puck. Naturally, as a coach, I’d love to have more skill, but we have players that are getting rewarded right now for their effort on and off the ice.”

COMMITMENT CORNER

Former Jets’ forward Steve Klisz has committed to attend and play hockey at ACHA Division I Indiana Tech University beginning with the 2014-15 season.

Klisz, a 20-year-old Livonia, Mich., native, played for the Jets during the 2011-12 season and led the team with 30 goals and tied for the team lead with 67 points.

JET STREAKS 

Defenseman Josh Hosking, who played for the Jets last season before being traded to Pittsburgh at the NA3HL trade deadline, returned to Waterford two weekends ago against the Michigan Mountain Cats.

Hosking, a 20-year-old native of Oxford, Mich., recorded three goals and seven points in 29 games with the Blind River Beavers of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League this season.

Last year with the Jets, Hosking scored two goals and 11 points in 29 games before being dealt to Pittsburgh on Feb. 6. He was then re-acquired by the Jets on May 24.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Jon Elliott, a forward who played for Metro during the 2009-10 season, is now in his sophomore season at St. Mary’s University, an NCAA Division III school in Winona, Minn., that plays in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Elliot, a 22-year-old native of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., has tallied three goals and three assists for six points through 16 games this season.

In his season with the Jets, Elliott was second in team scoring with 15 goals and 26 points and also played in all 48 games that year.

From 2010-12, he played for the Cumberland Grads of the Central Canada Hockey League, registering 29 goals and 75 points in 124 games.

Captain's Corner - Pittsburgh, stepping up, Mountain Cats

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On last weekend's split at home with Pittsburgh.

We played really well the first game, we kept it simple. The second was a struggle. They were just beating us to all the loose pucks, capitalizing on most our mistakes, and that led to a loss. It's in the past now, nothing to dwell on.

-- On who has been stepping up their game for the Jets lately.

A lot of the guys have stepped up, especially (goaltender) Trevor Kalinowski. He's been giving us the chances we need to win games with big saves.

-- On how important each game is from here on out.

The rest of the games are really important. We have to be ready to play each and every game if we want to make a run for playoffs. The schedule is definitely in our favor to do so and there's no reason we shouldn't make it.

-- On this weekend's home-and-home series with the Michigan Mountain Cats.

The keys for the weekend against the Mountain Cats are going to be keeping it simple, just as Coach Q has taught us to do. When we play a simple game for a full 60 minutes and play between the whistles, we give ourselves a very good chance at winning any hockey game.

Pittsburgh doubles up Jets Sunday afternoon to gain split

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Pittsburgh Vengeance salvaged a weekend split with the Metro Jets after getting a 4-2 win Sunday afternoon at Lakeland Arena.

Kyle Shreve and Cooper McLean scored for the Jets and goaltender Trevor Kalinowski finished with 26 saves in the loss.

The Jets (16-20-2) next play a home-and-home with the Michigan Mountain Cats. Game time is 7:50 p.m. Saturday night at Lakeland and then 1:45 p.m. Sunday at Fraser Hockeyland.

Metro downs Pittsburgh Saturday night at Lakeland

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Metro Jets used five different goal-scorers to pick up a 5-2 win over the Pittsburgh Vengeance Saturday night at Lakeland Arena.

Kyle Shreve had a goal and an assist for the Jets, while Alex Holm, Cody Jones, Brad Hepler and Nate Phillips added single goals to back Trevor Kalinowski's 25-save outing between the pipes.

 "I'll never complain about getting two points when we need it more than they do," said Jets' coach Justin Quenneville. "At the end of the day, we got our two points and we'll move forward building off the positives. We're playing stronger hockey every game, but I think for selfish reasons as a coach, you want to play consistent hockey, so good teams still find ways to win and we're doing that even when we're not playing our best."

The two teams wrap up their weekend series Sunday with an 11:50 a.m. puck drop.

Captain's Corner - past captains, Mountain Cats, Vengeance

Each week for the rest of the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Zack MacKay will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On taking over as the Jets' captain from Josh Beleski.

It's a huge honor being given the chance to be the captain of the Jets. I had a taste of it at the beginning of the year while Beleski was undecided on playing with us or not and it was a great privilege. With being captain, I also felt I needed to step up my game and be more of a leader on the ice.

-- On what he learned this season from Beleski and last season from Matt Stirling.

This year, whenever I'd have to do something or make a captain’s decision on something, my first thoughts have been to ask myself how Stirling would handle it. Both Beleski and Stirling were great role models on the ice as well, putting their bodies on the line for the team, and that was one of the biggest traits I had to take in from them.

-- On last weekend's sweep of the Michigan Mountain Cats.

The sweep from the weekend was huge. After having a close game against Flint last Saturday and then being up 2-0 in the first and losing last Sunday to Flint, I feel we really needed these wins for the points and a confidence boost to get everything back on track.

-- On hosting the Pittsburgh Vengeance at home this weekend.

This coming weekend is no different than any other weekend. It doesn't matter who we’re playing, we just have to be ready to play a full 60 minutes each game. Preparing for the games ahead, I think as a team, we all need to be ready to practice hard this week and it'll fall into place.

Kalinowski leads Jets to sweep over Mountain Cats

FRASER, Mich. - The Metro Jets relied on the sparkling performance of Trevor Kalinowski in net to grab a 4-1 win against the Michigan Mountain Cats Sunday afternoon at Fraser Hockeyland.

Kalinowski made 26 saves for the Jets (15-19-2) and captain Zack MacKay scored twice to lead the offense.

Alex Holm and Kyle Downey also scored in the win.

For the Mountain Cats, goalie Walker Bass finished with 38 saves and Shawn Mott scored the lone goal.

The Jets host the Pittsburgh Vengeance next weekend at Lakeland Arena. Game time Saturday night is 7:50 p.m. with an 11:50 a.m. puck drop slated for Sunday.

Shreve's four-point night lifts Jets past Mountain Cats

WATERFORD, Mich. - Kyle Shreve notched three goals and an assist to lead the Metro Jets to a 6-3 win over the Michigan Mountain Cats Saturday night at Lakeland Arena.

Alex Holm added a goal and an assist for the Jets, while Travis Baranoski and Matt Dempsey also scored and new captain Zack MacKay tacked on three assists.

Metro goalie Trevor Kalinowski made 26 saves for the win.

Max Vance, Kade Morrison and Shawn Cornock scored for the Mountain Cats and Kevin O'Shea stopped 32 shots between the pipes.

The two teams play the second end of the home-and-home Sunday afternoon with a 1:45 p.m. puck drop at Fraser Hockeyland.

Second-year forward Holm making strides with Jets

WATERFORD, Mich. – Alex Holm came to the Metro Jets prior to the 2012-13 North American 3 Hockey League season and put up pretty good numbers as a 17-year-old rookie.

This season, the West Bloomfield, Mich., native is on pace to increase his point totals and possibly climb the hockey ladder next season.

“I thought Metro was a great opportunity for me to move up and to further my hockey career and to have two years of juniors under my belt will help me even more,” Holm said. “Last season helped me grow as a player in all areas and last season also helped me prepare for the grind and commitment for this year. It's great being able to stay home in my own town with my family and friends to play juniors, but I also want to experience being away and on my own.”

In 2012-13, Holm registered 10 goals and 13 assists for 23 points in 44 games and this year, leads the Jets with 10 goals already and is third in team scoring with 20 points while playing in all 34 games.

”We had a rough start, but our team starting to get over this hump and I know I have a lot more to show,” said Holm. “We’ve got a great group of guys in the locker room. We all got each other’s backs and are always there for each other.”

With two years of junior hockey eligibility after this season, Holm will no doubt have options this summer and he’s aware of this. To prepare, he wants to keep working hard the rest of this season and take it from there.

”I feel the strongest part of my game is getting in areas to get the puck to make plays, getting pucks on net and taking it to the net,” said Holm. “My long-term goal is to make playoffs and show everyone what our team is capable of. My dreams are to keep moving up in hockey and eventually, play college hockey.”

JET STREAKS 

Former Jets’ goaltenders Alex Nedeljkovic (No. 5) and Devin Williams (No. 14) were listed on the NHL Central Scouting’s mid-term rankings for the 2014 NHL draft among North American goalies.

Nedeljkovic appeared in nine games with the Jets during the 2012-13 regular season and was named the NA3HL Goaltender of the Month in November. He also was chosen for the U.S. Under-18 Select Team that competed at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament and is currently in his second year with the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League.

Williams, now with the OHL’s Erie Otters, played for Metro at the start of the 2011-12 season and went 9-9-0 with a 3.88 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage in 19 games.

Last Sunday’s loss to Flint was Metro captain Josh Beleski’s last game in a Jets’ uniform as he leaves for Navy boot camp in the Chicago area on Feb. 11. Zack MacKay will assume the captain’s role for the rest of the season.

And the player advancements continue to pile up – goaltender Kam Limburg earned a call-up to the North American Hockey League’s Springfield Jr. Blues, while forward Kevin Shand, who is currently with the Jr. Blues after a stint earlier this season in Waterford, has been pulled up to the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders of the United States Hockey League.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Dillon Kelley, who formed a tandem with Williams with the Jets early in the 2011-12 season, began this season in the NAHL with the Michigan Warriors before being traded to the Austin (Minn.) Bruins last week.

This year with the Flint-based Warriors, the 19-year-old from Petoskey, Mich., went 7-7-2-1 with a 2.74 goals-against average and a .903 save percentage with one shutout.

In his season with the Jets, Kelley went 18-8-1 with a 3,62 goals-against average, a .891 save percentage and three shutouts. At the end of that season, Kelley saw one game of action with the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League.

At the start of the 2012-13 season, Kelley played for current Jets’ head coach Justin Quenneville with the NAHL’s Corpus Christi IceRays before joining the Warriors mid-season.

Captain's Corner - Flint, playoffs, Mountain Cats, last game

Each week during the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Josh Beleski will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On getting swept last weekend by Flint.

It was a pretty rough weekend, but the guys all played hard. We spent most of our time in the penalty box, but we never stopped fighting. Saturday was upsetting because we had the win, but we made one simple mistake that lost us the game.

-- On looking ahead and how to make the playoffs.

The guys just need to stay positive and keep working hard. They won't see Flint for the rest of the season, so all they have to worry about is beating everyone else, but if they make it to playoffs, they will end up playing Flint again and I know the guys can pull off the wins they need.

-- On this weekend's home-and-home with the Michigan Mountain Cats.

Well, these four points are huge, but so is every other point from here on out. The team just needs to take it one day at a time and not get ahead of themselves. I know the guys are going to win this weekend and hopefully, will continue to win because they deserve to make the playoffs.

-- On last Sunday being his last game with the Jets before leaving for Navy boot camp Feb. 11.

I had been talking to the coaches about it for a while. I just figured I would make Sunday my last game because it was at home against Flint. I couldn't think of a better way to go out. Before the game, I was okay and I held myself together. I think I really started getting emotional in the last minute of the game. I'm going to miss the road trips and the early morning practices with the boys. It was hard knowing I would have to leave my brothers at some point during the season, but duty calls and I have to do what I think is best for Sarah (my future wife) and I in the long run. I just want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me and my decision and to the guys, thank you for the memories. I love you all like brothers!  

Jets score early, late, but fall to Flint Sunday afternoon

WATERFORD, Mich. - The Metro Jets scored the first two goals of the game and the last two goals of the game, but the Flint Jr. Generals scored seven in between and defeated the Jets 7-4 Sunday afternoon at Lakeland Arena to sweep the weekend home-and-home series between the two teams.

Metro captain Josh Beleski scored two goals, while Matt Dempsey and Zack MacKay each went for a goal and an assist.

Davide Mantovani and Kam Limburg combined for 26 saves in the Jets' cage.

Seven different players scored for the Jr. Generals.

Next up for the Jets (13-19-2) is a home-and-home set with the Michigan Mountain Cats, starting next Saturday night at Lakeland with a 7:50 p.m. start and finishing up Sunday at 1:45 p.m. at Fraser Hockeyland.

Jets edged by Jr. Generals Saturday night in Flint

FLINT, Mich. - The Flint Jr. Generals relied on the scoring touch of Brett Leppek, who netted two goals, to beat the Metro Jets 2-1 Saturday night at Iceland Arenas.

Leppek found the back of the net short handed 12:55 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Flint and again while 14:43 into the third to make the score 2-1 Flint.

Metro was stymied by Flint netminder Anders Franke, who stopped 25 shots during the victory.

Kyle Shreve scored the Jets' only goal 7:41 into the second period to make the score 1-1.

Metro goaltender Trevor Kalinowski stopped 30 shots in suffering the loss.

The two teams rematch Sunday at Lakeland Arena for an 11:50 a.m. start.

Captain's Corner - Times Square, Toledo, trade, Flint weekend

Each week during the 2013-14 season, Metro Jets’ captain Josh Beleski will give his thoughts on topics surrounding the team as it makes its way through the North American 3 Hockey League season, the 25th for the Jets as a junior franchise. 

-- On how he spent the holidays.

I spent a lot of time with the family. I also went and saw the ball drop in Times Square this year. That was crazy - way too many people there for me. I'm happy with just watching it on TV.

-- On splitting with Toledo last weekend.

The last two games actually went really good. The only problem we had was in the first game in the last minute of the game. Other than that, we played our game and really kept the pressure on them. If we keep playing like this the rest of the season, then we have a really great chance of making the playoffs.

-- On the Kenny Forton-Nate Phillips trade and getting back Kyle Shreve.

Forton is a great guy and the team definitely misses him. I know he did not want to leave this team, but for other reasons, he had no choice but to leave. Phillips is a great guy, too, and he gets along with all the guys and is definitely a big help to our defense. Having Shreve back really helps out the team. He is an incredibly skilled hockey player and we can always use a player like him on the team.

-- On this weekend's home-and-home series with Flint.

The upcoming weekend is going to be very tough, but I know the boys and I can beat Flint. We have been up and down all year, but I believe everything from here on out is going to be all uphill for us. This is the last time we play Flint this season, so we will definitely be coming out hard because we need the points and we don't want to be swept by Flint on the season.

Shreve returns to Jets after NAHL stint with Springfield

WATERFORD, Mich. – Kyle Shreve averaged a point per game last season with the Metro Jets and was rewarded with a tender agreement offer from the Springfield Jr. Blues of the North American Hockey League.

Shreve began this season with the Jr. Blues and had three goals and nine points in 27 games, but was recently reassigned to the North American 3 Hockey League and the Jets.

Though some may see this move as a demotion, Shreve is hardly taking it as such.

“While I was in Springfield, I grew a lot as a player,” said Shreve, a 19-year-old forward from Walled Lake. “It was a learning experience, for sure, but I tried to help the team every time I was on the ice. One positive I see coming back to Metro is that everyone is committed to working hard on and off the ice and that we are also a very well-coached team.”

Last weekend, Shreve recorded an assist in the Jets’ two games against the Toledo Cherokee and hopes the points keep coming.

”I was told that I need to get back the same level of play I had at the beginning of the year,” said Shreve of what he needs to work on in Waterford. “More specifically, I need to be working harder in the defensive zone and creating more offensive chances.”

Earlier this season, the Jets had forward Kevin Shand on assignment from the Jr. Blues and once Shand went back up to Springfield, he had casual chatter with Shreve.

“We just made small talk and I tried to get a gauge on how the team was doing this year,” Shreve said. “He had nothing but good things to say about the team and really enjoyed playing for the team and especially, for coach (Justin) Quenneville.”

Once he arrived back home, Shreve said it was an adjustment last weekend, but as the games wore on, he found his groove.

“I thought we started off a little slow, but once I got my nervous energy out and as Saturday’s game went on, I feel like our chemistry got better,” said Shreve, who played on a line with Alex Holm and Matt Dempsey. “By the end of Sunday’s game, I thought we had played well and deserved the win on Sunday.

”Compared to last season, the team is a lot different for sure. One of the biggest things I noticed immediately is age and size. I think this year we are smaller, but a more finesse team than last year.”

With a year of junior eligibility remaining after this season, Shreve wants to do all he can to once again play in the NAHL.

“I want to play in the North American League again because I feel that it’s the best league for me to play in,” Shreve said. “I need to just settle down and have more patience with the puck and I need to get back to the things that made me successful last season.”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? 

Former Jets’ forward Dustin Cloutier made his Kalamazoo Wings’ ECHL season debut last weekend after starting the season in Norway with Frisk Akser.

Cloutier has played parts of three seasons with the K-Wings.

Unlike the past two seasons with Kalamazoo, Cloutier joins the team as a defenseman. The native of Berkley, Mich., has also played on the blue line for Frisk Asker, where he posted 10 points (five goals, five assists) in 26 games.

Before turning pro, Cloutier played three seasons of junior hockey, including the 2004-05 season for the Jets, and was a four-year standout at NCAA Division I Bentley University.

Cloutier also played in the NAHL for the Mahoning Valley Phantoms and in the United States Hockey League for the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders.

Photo/NAHL

After stunning loss, Jets come back with shootout win over Toledo

WATERFORD, Mich. - Just one day after losing in the final seconds in Toledo, the Metro Jets rebounded with a 3-2 shootout win over Toledo Sunday afternoon at Lakeland Arena.

Saturday night, Blake Podgorski's goal at 19:49 of the third period gave the Cherokee the stunning win after Cooper McLean and Travis Baranoski scored and Kam Limburg made 31 saves in net.

This afternoon, newcomer Nate Phillips (acquired last Friday from the Michigan Mountain Cats for defenseman Kenny Forton) and Alex Holm scored in regulation and then Holm's goal in the shootout was the difference.

Metro goalie Trevor Kalinowski made 14 saves in regulation and then stopped all Toledo shooters in the shootout.

Next up for the Jets (13-17-2) is a home-and-home series with the Flint Jr. Generals next weekend. The two teams play in Flint Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. and then at 11:50 a.m. Sunday in Waterford.