Hockey recruiting is much different than any other sport. With the number of leagues and different paths players can take results in a very competitive recruiting system. In Canada, for male hockey players, they typically have two options when it comes to choosing their future in hockey; play NCAA or play Major Junior. Due to the NCAA rules, to be eligible you must remain an amateur athlete hence, accepting any pay for playing is forbidden. Whereas Major Junior players get weekly stipends from $50-$150. For female hockey players on the other hand, if they are top of their class, they only have one path to follow; NCAA in the States or USport in Canada. If a player plays Minor/Major Midget AAA or Tier 2 Junior chances are scouts know about them. Here are some ins and outs of recruiting to help your son or daughter through the process.
- Be Proactive, unless your child is one of the very best for their age group, scouts want you to reach out to them to show your interest. Not only that, but when it comes to NCAA rules coaches are limited to how much they can talk to you until the player’s Grade 12 year. However, you can email, or call them as often as you wish.
- Due to the competitive nature of recruiting, it can start as young as 14 years old. Coaches want the best players and therefor have to recruit them young before they commit to another team/school.
- Be patient when it comes time for your child to be recruited. Prospects can commit to NCAA Universities as early as 14 and as late as 21. Everyone’s recruiting process is different so be patient.
- Ensure your child keeps on top of academics during their recruiting journey. Many Universities have academic requirements for their players. There is also the NCAA Clearing House, which determines the academic requirements one must have to play NCAA hockey.
- Above all, ensure you are supportive to the player through this process. Let them talk on the phone and email the coaches to show their ambition and prove they want it and it is not all about their parents wishes.