The Clearwater Hosers have a solid backbone in their net, John Jaillet. A seasoned goalie with a story as rich as his love for the game, Jaillet has been stopping pucks and winning hearts for two years with the Hosers, bringing dedication, humour, and a lifetime of experience to the team.
Born and raised in Dain City, Welland, Ontario Jaillet’s hockey journey began in the late 1960s on frozen ponds with neighbourhood kids. “Childhood friends out having fun on a local pond beside our house inspired me to start playing hockey,” he recalls. After stepping away from the game during his military service, he returned to the crease in the late 90s before rediscovering his passion in 2023 with the Clearwater Hosers.
As a goalie, Jaillet draws inspiration from legendary netminders Ken Dryden and Gerry Cheevers. “Ken Dryden was every kid’s idol back then—winning Stanley Cups and being a dominant force. Gerry Cheevers, though, was a local hero with an incredible 32-game unbeaten streak,” he says.
John’s contributions to the team extend beyond his skill. His funniest teammate, Don Pendergast, keeps the locker room lively, though Jaillet’s corner stall filled with goalie gear often draws its own share of attention. “Have you seen how much equipment a goalie needs? That’s why I’ve staked my claim in the corner—it’s the only spot big enough!” he jokes.
Jaillet’s commitment to his craft is evident. His pregame rituals include drills on NHL Sense Arena VR and a thorough warm-up, paired with 32 ounces of water for hydration. “When I skip it or cut it short, my game isn’t the same,” he admits.
One memorable on-ice moment still brings a smile to his face: shutting down all of Randy Hedlund’s shots in a game. “Sorry, Cuz… not really!” he laughs. It’s these lighthearted moments that highlight the camaraderie within the team, which Jaillet describes in three words: supportive, comradeship and welcoming.
Though he doesn’t follow the NHL closely, Jaillet enjoys watching juniors in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and Western Hockey League (WHL), keeping an eye on rising talents like Vancouver Giants goalie Burke Hood. Off the ice, he’s a fan of classic rock, “Top Gun: Maverick,” and quirky shows like the “Ma and Pa Kettle” series, which remind him of his father’s humorous stories.
As for the fans, Jaillet admits he doesn’t notice much while focused on the puck, but their support means everything. “It doesn’t matter what level you’re at—the Clearwater Hosers welcome everyone to come out and play,” he says.
At 32 games into his Hoser career, Jaillet remains dedicated to improving his mobility, core strength, and flexibility, ensuring he’s in net for many years to come. If he could have one superpower on the ice? “Superman’s strength—no gear, no sweat, just saves!”
John Jaillet represents everything that makes hockey great—team spirit, love of the game, and dedication to lifelong improvement. Fans and teammates alike are lucky to have this goalie filling the net when needed.
(Clearwater Hosers would like to thank funding partners, Wadlegger Logging and Construction and J&K Creations for their generous donations.)
