PlayYourGame.com - Player Question Archive

Question Archive
Parents Ask the Vet

Tell Us Your Story
Women's Game

Q: My son is a second year bantam goalie currently playing on a AAA team in Northern California. He wants the opportunity to "get noticed." Can you suggest camps that he might apply to or try out for, or is it necessary to send him back east to a prep school?

A: Before discussing ways on how to "get noticed", we are first going to discuss the factor of location. Your son represents probably the first generation of players that had the chance to grow up playing and enjoying hockey in California. Of course, there have been many players in the past, but with the exposure of hockey now, there is large group of players all priming to make the next step. It represents both an exciting and challenging future. With this said though, hockey is still in its infancy in California in comparison to Massachusetts, New Hampshire, or Canada. Back east or up north, hockey is an institution and has the infrastructure to support it.
      When you look at the number of players that are freshman in the CCHA (Central Collegiate Hockey Association), nearly 45% played in the NAHL (U.S. Jr. A league). Almost all the rest in the CCHA and the rest of the NCAA came up through the prep school ranks or through other Junior A leagues in both the U.S. and Canada. So, when looking at your son's next step, logically either Junior A or prep school is the best option. Major Junior hockey in Canada is another traditional routine for breeding players for the NHL, but given your geographical location, it may not be easy to gain exposure.
      Now, we are not saying that moving your son back east is your only option. A major part of what we recommend to players regardless of location is self-promotion. For many players, the chance to get noticed may not come. With the number of talented players out there, it is impossible for junior teams and schools to effectively scout every team or league. Have your son do up a resume and cover letter to both junior teams and colleges (examples can be found in the getting noticed section of our site). By introducing himself, his name will gain familiarity with coaches and administrators. These introductions may also help him gain an invitation to a team's rookie or main camp. Whether it be main or rookie camp, the chance to play against a diverse crop of players will help your son improve his game and will give him the opportunity to get noticed. As well, we also encourage your son to sit down with his coach. Giving his coach an understanding of his goals will help them work together for his benefit. His coach should help with marketing him to teams. Along with coaches, try to talk with players from your area who may have already made that next step. Gaining insight from them or their parents will be invaluable. As well, an opportunity to play with these players over the summer may present itself with such contacts.
      As we mentioned above, being in California may present an obstacle. Simply put, hockey has grown faster across the U.S. than the infrastructure has to support it. Scouting networks and even junior leagues haven't had the chance to fully develop. Therefore, pursuing opportunities for your son to play back east might be in his best interest. But, keep in mind that this is a serious decision. First, find out what your son hopes to do. With this in mind, you need to take into consideration the effects on family and the financial considerations involved. It is a serious commitment for your son to move away from home. It is also important to note at this point that almost every player that makes the jump to the next level will have to move away from home. Even in cases where junior teams are plentiful, it is a rare opportunity for a player to play in his hometown.
      We also encourage you take a look at our Ask the Vet Question Archive. It has answers to some similar questions that might give additional insight into your situation. As well, don't forget to have your son do up a hockey resume. It is a good practice to get into. As well, you can find contact information to all of the Junior A leagues and colleges in the Leagues & Teams section of our site.