Janesville Jets were our presenters today. Shelton Tripp, who knew little about hockey before coming to Janesville 16 months ago, reminded us that the Jets were started 11 years ago during a bleak time in Janesville as GM and all the ancillary companies left. The NAHL team (level between High School and College) has 3 pillars of focus: to provide affordable family fun, advance and develop players to get them Division 1 opportunities, and provide community service. He emphasized how the community involvement, extended Billet family relationships and friendships help develop the players. Coach Randy Childs played in Janesville for the Jets and returned to coach and spoke of the strength the Billet family structure provides. Three players also spoke to us abut their experiences: Parker (center), Justin (center) and Nick (right wing). Parker hails from Madison and found the adjustment to living in Janesville easy. While an injury has limited is playing time this year, he has been signed by Northern MI. Nick spoke of the Billet family connections and support and will be playing for MI Tech. They play in a 26 team league with teams from Alaska to Texas. Players are scouted and recruited and sign tender agreements to move to Janesville and play for the Jets. Around 200 players come to try out to get a spot on the team as well. The Jets have a great track record of placing over 110 players with Division 1 positions. If you haven't attended a Jets game and want to see the action in person, come with our Club to the game on January 31st. Sign up will be sent out by Mandy. Note: the players love to hear their names yelled!