Jake Clement Signs with Rhino for Second Season

Jul 14, 2020

Why did you decide to re-sign with the Rhinos?

I decided to re-sign with the Rhinos because it is the best program for my development as a player and person. The training we get and our facilities are unbeatable. On top of that, the winning and championship mindset is one I love to be a part of.

What makes playing in El Paso so special?

For me, being from El Paso, growing up playing within the organization and watching games as a young fan makes it so special to be able to play here. To be on the other side of it as a player, it feels like every moment is truly a dream come true. The atmosphere, fans, and community create a truly special place to be able to play.

What is your favorite thing about playing for the Rhinos?

My favorite thing about playing for the Rhinos is the fans and our winning culture and a big reason for that winning culture is our fans. Rhino Country has the best fan base in junior hockey and it’s very easy to get pumped up when you know you have a sold out crowd there to root you on. There’s nothing like skating out of the rhino during a weekend series at home with a full crowd there to support the team.

What are your goals as a hockey player?

I hope to win a championship here at the junior level and move on to play NCAA hockey after my junior career is over. I want to go the furthest I can with the sport and continue to play at a higher level and enjoy it for as long as possible.

What is the one game day ritual you need to do before each game?

Before each game, I tape two sticks, and I make sure they are perfect. Then I place them, blade side up, on the wall so that the first thing the tape touches is the ice. Also, after every single warmup, before heading to the locker room, I always play a game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors,” best of three, with our equipment manager Jake Mata.