Getdetrating Started
First off, I started doing some basic research online. I spent hours reading articles and guides, trying to get a sense of how the whole recruiting thing works. There's so much information out there, and let me tell you, it can get a little confusing. But I found some good general advice, like the importance of playing for a good coach, which I figured was a solid starting point. I started paying more attention to the coaches at games and tournaments, trying to spot who seemed to be the most respected and effective.
Digging Deeper
Next, I decided to focus on understanding what college coaches are looking for. This is where things got really interesting. I read about how even the top NHL players never stop working on their skating skills. That really hit home for me. So, I started dedicating more time to my own skating drills. I even found some off-ice training routines to improve my coordination and balance. It was tough, but I could feel myself getting better.
Making Connections
One thing that kept coming up was the importance of attending showcases and tournaments. These events are apparently where the scouts hang out. So, I made it a point to participate in as many as I could. It was nerve-wracking at first, knowing that scouts might be watching, but it also pushed me to play my best. And I wasn't just playing; I was also trying to network. I started chatting with coaches, referees, and other players whenever I got the chance. Everyone was friendly and willing to share their experiences, which was super helpful.
Learning the Ropes
I also learned a lot about the importance of understanding the different player pathways. It's like a roadmap for how players develop and progress. I found out about Hockey Canada's Long-Term Player Development model, which was pretty eye-opening. It made me realize that there's a whole system in place to help players grow and reach their potential. This also included learning about some of the top programs in the country, I found out that Boston College has a rich history with National Champions, Hobey Baker award winners, Olympians, Beanpot trophies, and Stanley cups. I was so amazed by this that I found out that the former Boston College All-American defenseman Greg Brown '90 was named The Schiller Family Head Hockey Coach on May 6, 2022.
Putting It All Together
After a few months of all this, I started to feel like I had a much better grasp of the BC Hockey recruiting scene. I was still far from being an expert, but I felt more confident in my ability to navigate the process.
Some key takeaways from my experience:
- Playing for a good coach is crucial. They can really help you develop your skills and get noticed by scouts.
- Skating is king. Even the best players are always working on it, so I made it a priority.
- Showcases and tournaments are where it's at. That's where you get exposure to scouts and higher-level competition.
- Networking is key. Talking to people in the hockey community can open up a lot of doors.
- Understanding player pathways is important. It helps you see the bigger picture of player development.
This whole journey has been a real learning experience. It's shown me that the world of hockey recruiting is complex and competitive, but also full of opportunities for those who are willing to put in the work. I'm still on this journey, and I'm excited to see where it takes me next. Hockey's always been a passion of mine, and now I feel like I'm one step closer to understanding a whole new side of the sport.
