
OAK FOREST, IL - Let’s get one thing straight: the Chicago Cougars aren’t just playing hockey this season—they’re owning it. And this past week? Well, it was a masterclass in dominance. The USPHL Midwest Division took notice, and for good reason. Forward Jeffrey Schroeder, defenseman Kennelly Clinton, and goaltender Kole Wendt were all named Players of the Week, sweeping the honors and putting the league on notice. This isn’t just a hot streak; this is a statement. Let’s break it down, because these three deserve every bit of the spotlight.
Jeffrey Schroeder: The Chicago Cougars Offensive Phenom

If you’re not familiar with Jeffrey Schroeder yet, it’s time to wake up. The ‘07 Hoffman Estates native is putting on a clinic this season, and last week was no exception. Schroeder racked up 12 points in three games, including four goals and eight assists. Let that sink in. That’s not just production—that’s artistry.
Schroeder is the Cougars’ points leader this season with 34 points (17 goals, 21 assists) in just 26 games. But here’s the kicker: he’s only in his second Elite season. At just 16 years old, he’s already playing like a seasoned pro. His vision on the ice is reminiscent of a young Joe Sakic, always seeing plays develop before anyone else. His hands? Silky smooth, like he’s been taking lessons from Pavel Datsyuk. And his ability to create plays out of nothing? That’s pure Patrick Kane energy.
What stands out most about Schroeder isn’t just the numbers—it’s the clutch factor. He’s got a game-winning goal to his name this season, and his power-play prowess (2 PPG) shows he’s not afraid to step up when the pressure’s on. With 48 points in 60 career games, Schroeder isn’t just the present for the Cougars—he’s the future. And if last week was any indication, that future is blindingly bright.
Kennelly Clinton: The Blueline Beast
Now, let’s talk about Kennelly Clinton. The ‘07 Westmont native is redefining what it means to be a defenseman in the USPHL. Last week, Clinton tallied five points in three games, cementing his status as the Cougars’ highest-scoring defenseman this season with 22 points (5 goals, 19 assists).

Clinton isn’t just a defensive anchor—he’s a playmaker. With 41 career points in 59 games, he’s proven time and time again that he can quarterback the offense from the back end. His ability to jump into the rush, thread tape-to-tape passes, and unleash a sneaky-good shot makes him a nightmare for opposing teams. There’s a little Scott Niedermayer in his game—smooth, smart, and always in control—but with a physical edge that would make Chris Pronger proud.
But don’t let the offensive numbers fool you—Clinton is a defenseman first. He’s physical, he’s disciplined (just 25 PIM this season), and he’s got the hockey IQ to shut down opposing forwards. Last week was just another reminder that Clinton is the complete package. When he’s on the ice, the Cougars are a different team.
Kole Wendt: The Wall in the Crease
Every great team needs a great goaltender, and the Cougars have theirs in Kole Wendt. The ‘04 Loves Park native was a brick wall last week, stopping 21 of 23 shots in a January 4 matchup for a .913 save percentage. That’s not just good—that’s elite.

Wendt is in his second season with the Cougars, and he’s been a model of consistency. This season, he’s sporting a .911 save percentage and a 2.50 goals against average, with a record of 4-3-0-0. But stats only tell part of the story. Wendt’s calm demeanor under pressure, his lightning-quick reflexes, and his ability to make the big save when it matters most have been the backbone of the Cougars’ success. There’s a little Marc-André Fleury in his game—athletic, composed, and always ready to steal a game—but with the technical precision of a Carey Price.
In the playoffs last season, Wendt was even better, posting a .933 save percentage and a 1.80 GAA in his lone appearance. When the stakes are high, Wendt rises to the occasion. Last week was just another example of why he’s one of the most reliable netminders in the league.
The Bigger Picture
What does it mean for the Cougars to sweep the USPHL Midwest Division Players of the Week? It means this team is firing on all cylinders. Schroeder is leading the charge up front, Clinton is dominating the blue line, and Wendt is locking it down between the pipes. This isn’t just a trio of talented players—it’s a culture.
Head coach Anthony Rohde couldn’t be prouder of his squad. “These guys are the heartbeat of our team,” Rohde said. “Jeffrey’s creativity, Kennelly’s poise, and Kole’s composure—they’re not just great players, they’re great leaders. When they’re at their best, we’re at our best. And last week? They were at their best.”
The Cougars are building something special here, and these three are at the heart of it. Schroeder’s offensive brilliance, Clinton’s two-way dominance, and Wendt’s goaltending heroics are the ingredients of a championship-caliber team. And if last week was any indication, the rest of the league should be on notice.
So, here’s to Jeffrey Schroeder, Kennelly Clinton, and Kole Wendt—three players who aren’t just making waves, but tsunamis. The Chicago Cougars are riding high, and with these three leading the way, the sky’s the limit.
From the entire Chicago Cougars' organization congratulations Jeffrey, Kennelly, and Kole! Let’s go, Cougars.
Comments