NCAA & University Hockey - The importance of protecting this option and using it as a tool for development for player on and off the ice

NCAA & Prep Schools

Let’s talk about what nobody else wants to talk about. “Education” and hockey, the importance of protecting this option and using it as a tool for development for player on and off the ice.

We urge all of our parents and players to make their formal education a priority. A formal education is an asset that will last a lifetime. A career in professional hockey will be short. Often with a smart and well-planned approach, both a formal education and hockey skill development can be achieved at the same time. Protecting and advancing the education option simply makes great sense and is a strategy that our advisors can coordinate.

University Hockey

Both major junior hockey and the NCAA are competing for the same top tier talent pool of junior hockey players. The NCAA has designed eligibility rules, which should be considered generally in the minor midget year of a player. Our independent family advisors guide parents through eligibility considerations and development opportunities.

Like other hockey options, an NCAA commitment is not a guarantee of either skill development nor a full education(with the exception of an Ivy League school commitment. Our advisors have experience and are uniquely positioned to provide the guidance, assessment and strategies to pursue these possibilities in Division I and III programs.

The NHL-NHLPA CBA no longer requires players to opt-in to the NHL draft. Players who go on to NCAA programs can now be drafted in the NHL without losing NCAA eligibility. Our family advisor program can assist parents to continue to properly assess their son’s situation through to the end of his NCAA career.

Prep School Hockey

University and pro scouts recognize this level is amongst the best for this age group. These schools have attracted top talent from around the world and provide significant daily ice-time and coaching in addition to game situations without onerous travel. Prep school should be considered as one of the better routes for preparing to play college hockey since, in addition to the academic foundation, the level of play is superior and the exposure to college coaches is excellent. A recent survey determined that:

71% of D-1 Prep School players in the last 4 years made an NCAA hockey roster.
54% of USA Hockey Junior A Tier I players made an NCAA roster.
32% of USA Hockey Junior A Tier II players made an NCAA roster.
3% of USA Hockey Junior B players made an NCAA roster.

Key Points we consider

The central criteria – the best interests of the player

How to assess the team suitability beyond the recruiting pitch?

Who to call, when can I call, who to talk with?

Who will assist the family initially and on an ongoing basis?

How to know what NCAA eligibility rules, academic qualifications, verbal and written commitments mean?

Is there really a “full ride”?

A specialized advisor guides parents through the maze of academic and other eligibility requirements and concerns and focuses on the parent’s main desire – the best interests and development of their sons and daughters.