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Q: I have been reading over the 'Getting Noticed' page and would like to know what my chances are for playing in a league like the ECHL or in Europe(Germany), if I have not played junior or collegiate level hockey. I believe in myself and feel that I have strong potential for the game. Are there teams that offer walk-on tryouts?

A: Thank you for your question. Although we can't comment directly on your potential, we'll do our best to give you insight to some of the challenges every hockey player faces when looking to play at the professional level.
      The chance to play professional hockey, whether it be the NHL, ECHL, or Europe, is the most coveted prize that every player, both young and old, hopes for. And, there is nothing better than being paid to play a sport that you love. However, the chance to play does not come to everyone. With every advancement in level of play, there comes more competition for spots.
      Specifically, the ECHL is one of the most competitive leagues in the World to play in. In the last 10 years, the ECHL has gone from a "minor pro league" to one of the top feeder/breeder leagues of the NHL. On any given team, there is generally 8-12 players already on NHL contract. Many top draft picks will play in this league to develop their game before progressing to the NHL. In fact, some of the top collegiate players have trouble making the jump to the "Coast".
      Europe has also long been sought after ground for young players trying to play pro. However, in recent years, playing in Europe has gotten extremely competitive. The opportunity to make more money and live overseas has drawn many collegiate and pro players away from North America. Generally speaking, each team in Europe only has a limited number of available spots (in some cases 3) for imports (foreign players). Therefore, competition is tough. With this said though, some North American raised players have been able to find positions in Europe, because they happen to hold a German, English, or other European passport. Having citizenship will often allow a player to play as a non-import. (For some additional insight, see the article about Europe in Career Paths.)
      With all this said and done, some of the best assets a player can have are heart and determination. Some players that have been over-looked have made it because of their perseverance. Players like Theo Fleury and Kurt Warner (of the Super Bowl winning St. Louis Rams) would not be the successes that they are today without their determination and "guts". Given the fact that you believe in yourself, you've overcome the hardest step.
      Some of the U.S. professional leagues (ECHL, WPHL, CHL, UHL, WCHL) will allow walk-ons. However, these players will have to cover their own expenses. As well, they may ask to see your resume before you tryout. Yes, unfortunately, hockey is a business. Many teams will look for stats and recommendations from the coaches in the leagues that you have played in.
      Without out past competitive experience, you will have to do a solid job of marketing yourself to teams. Try contacting teams through a letter and express that you are interested being a walk-on. It is important to have a good idea of what certain teams are looking for going into camp. If you show that you can contribute to a team where they need it most, your chances are compounded. Another important consideration is whether you have been continually playing contact hockey. Contact and non-contact hockey are completely different games. As well, within the contact world, from one level to the next, there is an adjustment that every player needs to make. The game gets tighter and faster as you move up the ranks.
      Ultimately, it comes down to you and your determination. If you feel you have the skills, try playing with the top players in your area over the summer. (Without failure, the top pro, collegiate, and junior players from your area will share ice time together over the summer months.) Find out where they play and see if you can join them. This experience will give you a good idea of talent levels and will undoubtedly help you improve your game.