A Moment in the Sun: Jared Boll

Jared Boll

Last week, Jared Boll was waived by the Columbus Blue Jackets. A ten year veteran of the team, the writing was on the wall for Boll. He was not getting much playing time, and was scratched in many games during the 2015-16 season. When he was given the opportunity to play he made the most of it, bringing the energy and the fight to a team that sorely needed it. He finished his time with the Blue Jackets as the guy with the most penalty minutes in team history.

Jared Boll was born in North Carolina but grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois. He was originally drafted by the Kingston Frontenacs, but he never played for the team. Instead, he chose the college route starting in the USHL with the Lincoln Stars. He was named the captain of the team, and after a successful couple of years he was offered a scholarship by the University of Minnesota - Duluth. Though his style would have been great for the Bulldogs, he passed on that as well.

Boll vs. Voros

Boll found a home with the Plymouth Whalers of the OHL (Ontario Hockey League). The Ontario Hockey League is where many players go if they choose not to play NCAA college hockey. Boll was chosen as an alternate captain and quickly became a fan favorite. He spent two seasons in the OHL, and the Whalers won the title in his second season with the team. From early on, Boll was a fan favorite and took on a leadership role on both teams.

Boll vs. Parros

Boll was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2005. The Blue Jackets selected Boll with the 101st pick. He would not start with the team until the 2007-2008 season. Unless you are a great player, you are usually drafted a couple years before you actually start with the team. It's sort of like the baseball draft, and unlike the NBA draft; where players are going straight into playing in the NBA. This helps the players get ready for the physical and mental demands of playing NHL hockey.

Jared scored his first goal on October 10th, 2007 against the Phoenix Coyotes. He would not be known as a scorer during his time in Columbus. He would be known for his physical play and dropping the gloves. He brought energy to the table and a willingness to stick up for his teammates. When it was called upon, he would wear the alternate captain "A".

Boll vs. Tootoo

Boll's presence was not only impactful on the ice, but as well as off the ice. He was always out and about in the community. He was a common figure at Columbus Blue Jackets' Open Houses and Draft Parties. I have met him a couple of times, and I think he one of hockey's good guys.

I am sad to see Jared Boll go, he was a great player for the Blue Jackets in his ten years in Columbus. Hopefully, he will get a shot somewhere else. He was class act where ever he has been. He has been a fan favorite on every team he has played for, taking on leadership positions when necessary. His energy has been just as high on the ice, as it has been off the ice. Personally, I think the Blue Jackets should do him the honor of retiring his jersey.

Boll at Krumm Park 

Jared Boll Wikipedia - I found most of the information on Boll from his wiki-page.

Jared Boll Fighting Stats - From hockeyfights.com; stats on all of Boll's fights throughout his career.

Jared Boll Player Stats - Stats from Blue Jackets website.