BY MATT MACKINDER
Clarkston News Editor

Austin Combs is making an impact this season on the ice with the United States Premier Hockey League’s Metro Jets Development Program (MJDP).
Just 18 years old and in his rookie season playing junior hockey, the Clarkston resident is currently fourth on the MJDP in scoring with four goals and 14 points in 13 games for the Mount Clemens-based organization.
“After last season (playing for Milford High School), the Jets seemed like the best option for me,” said Combs, a talented forward. “They have all the facilities and tools that I need to succeed in hockey. I feel like I can bring my scoring ability to the next level, and my hockey intelligence will help me succeed.”
Averaging better than a point per game through the first third of the season, Combs looks to be on the right path, on and off the ice.
“You couldn’t ask for a better atmosphere,” Combs said. “Everybody’s loving, likes each other, and everyone is caring and kind. Everyone supports each other, and that’s all you can ask for. I’ve really been enjoying it. It’s fun to get to play hockey, especially every single day.”
Combs is the latest Clarkston connection in recent times to play for the Jets, who previously called Fraser and Waterford home.
Defenseman Devlin Macaulay won a national championship with the Jets in 2018 and spent time playing NCAA Division III college hockey at New England College.
Aside from Milford, Combs played for the Michigan Elite Hockey program at the U18 AA level and won a state championship at the end of the 2020-21 season.
“My short-term goal is to be able to succeed at the junior level, but my long-term goal is to get an NCAA Division III scholarship and play college hockey,” said Combs. “This season, I hope to contribute to the success of the program and win a division championship so we can go to nationals in March.”
Heading into this weekend, the MJDP is in second place in the USPHL Midwest East Division with a 9-4-0 mark, just two points back of the Chicago Cougars.
Back in Clarkston, Combs said he has become enamored with the city.
“I like the downtown area,” said Combs. “It is a really nice and pleasant place to go out and eat and walk around. The restaurants are really good, especially the Union Woodshop.”
Combs’ immediate family includes his father Justin, stepmom Bethany, brothers David, 2, and Andrew, 12, and sister Violet, 4.

Photo provided by Jilleen Hays