#13 Chaise Howard Returns to the Jr. Blades with Unfinished Business
Estero, Fla.-- Chaise Howard returns for his third season with the Florida Jr. Blades. Howard has spent the last two seasons competing in high level competition, culminating in consecutive appearances at USA Hockey National Championship tournaments.
Howard, a six-foot-one forward from Estero, Fla. grew up playing hockey with the Junior Everblades and in roller hockey leagues. He developed an intellectual level to his hockey skills that allow him to be an effective playmaker.
"Chaise is a highly potent forward who posses the size and speed that every power forward aspires to," said head coach/ general manager Tad O'Had. "He's an intelligent player with a good shot and great hands."
Accumulating 27 points (12g, 15a) in 25 games Howard struggled with injury last season. "I've spent a lot of time training and getting myself ready to physically play," said Howard. "Sometimes you get hurt and you think you're better so you go out and play and it turns out you're not. That happened to me last season."
Howard has spent his off season building strength with strength and conditioning coach Todd Pococke at Athletic Republic. "Chaise has continued to strengthen, he has size, speed and strength," said Pococke. "All of these traits make him a versatile player who will definitely be successful this upcoming season."
Meanwhile Howard has big goals for the upcoming season. "I want to play in as many games as possible," said Howard. "We've come very close to nationals the last two seasons and this season I want to win it all."
Whether it's the first line or a third line power-player Howard is able to produce in the lineup. Scouts are sure to be watching as Howard embarks on what professionals say will be "his best season yet."
