As a rookie in 2021-22, Devon Mastay and the Metro Jets went to the USPHL national championship game.

Two years later, Mastay is a veteran defenseman with the Jets and will wear the ‘C’ for the team after recently being named captain for the Detroit-area club.

“I want to thank God and the coaching staff for the opportunity and honor to be named captain,” said Mastay, a Westminster native. “It is a blessing that I get to be in a leadership position for such a prestigious program. When it comes to playing at Metro, there is always a high standard. The coaching staff prepares us for all situations so all we have to do is rely on our training.”

When Mastay was a rookie, his older brother Cody, now starting his sophomore season at NCAA Division III Arcadia University, served as Metro’s captain, so leadership obviously runs in the family.

“My leadership style is show don’t tell,” said Mastay. “I show up every day and hold myself to a high standard and try to make everyone around me better. I’ve learned a lot from my past captains. Josh German has an intensity and compete level that is infectious. Cody taught me how to lead with actions. It never mattered what the situation was. He was ready and willing to do whatever it takes to win.”

Over his two seasons with the Jets, Mastay has tallied seven goals and 24 assists for 31 points in 78 regular-season games. He has added three goals and seven points in 14 postseason games. In 2021-22, Mastay earned a call-up to the NCDC’s Twin City Thunder, picking up an assist in one game.

Mastay said he is definitely looking to add to those totals this season.

“My expectation for the team is to win our last game,” said Mastay. “Only one team does it every year and there is no team in hockey that has more to play for this season.”

Back in April, Jets teammate Braydin Lewis lost his courageous battle with cancer. The team is dedicating this season to Lewis.

“This year means a lot more than any other,” Mastay said. “We are playing for Braydin Lewis. Being side by side with him throughout his battle, he is my inspiration. There is nothing I want more than to get a big fat ring with his name on it.”

Growing up in Colorado, Mastay skated for the Hyland Hills Jaguars, Boulder Bison, Colorado Evolution, and Colorado Springs Tigers.

Photo/G-Force Photography

— Matt Mackinder

(August 31, 2023)