Saley a 'pleasant surprise' for Metro

Will Saley made the Metro Jets’ roster this year after being drafted by the team in May’s Central States Hockey League draft.

He was originally penciled in as a depth player, but has shown a willingness to work hard and improve. That work ethic has moved Saley, a 17-year-old Milford native, to the second line with linemates Mick Kolbasowski and captain Adam Novack (Rochester Hills) where he has been a consistent scoring threat and currently leads the Jets in goals with five through seven games.

“When we got Will, it was with the idea that he’d be a two-year project for us,” Metro head coach Jamie Hayden said. “He’s shown us he can be an impact player right now and he’s been a pleasant surprise thus far.”

“Will’s not the biggest kid in the world (5-foot-9, 165 pounds), but he’s quick and knows how to effectively use his speed,” Metro GM Butch Wolfe said. “If he continues to improve for the remainder of this year, he should attract several North American Hockey League teams for next season. But in the meantime, we’re elated to have him with us this year.”

Saley played last year at Milford High School. He’s also just one of three draft picks to make Metro’s opening game roster this season along with goaltender Andrew New and Justin Vinson (Livonia).