Expert: Martial - 1/28/2008

Question
I have some questions regarding the bantam draft in Canada.
When to the scouts start talking to the kids and parents?
What rules have to be followed to ensure eligibility for junior A and college hockey?
Do WHL scouts avoid the  kids with the best grades because they assume that the kids will go the college route?
Basically,  What do we say in order to keep his options open, because we do not yet know what would be best for him.  I can not be sure that anyone is interested in him, but I would like to be prepared just in case.

Answer
Hi Cathy...

Unfortunately my exposure to the Canadian process is limited.  I do know Scouts can start looking at kids as early as PeeWee - like the major tournaments in Quebec City!

From then it could be another year or so after for Scouts to start talking to parents.

There are no particular rules that I am aware.  Just don't sign anything if you want to keep your options open.  For College hockey - there are clearing house rules to follow.  Most Canadian High School Counselors are aware of this and can have your child fill out the appropriate paperwork.

Most College don't' recruit high school players anymore - unless they are phenoms.  They prefer to see a player with Junior Experience!

It is only Major Jr A that takes away your right to College Scholarships.  You can always go to College and play hockey on your own anyway!

There are exposure camps that specialize in giving out information.  You can watch for these in the hockey news and or through the various Junior Hockey Club websites.

There have been stories about Scouts picking and choosing players to scout yes.   They only have so many hours to do their job - so it's a question of time management.  You may have to be pro-active and approach the scouts yourself.  Have a resume - player profile available - get yourself noticed and you can easily break through that theory!  Some scouts are more approachable than others - it's human nature.  Squeaky wheels do get more grease initially!  But bottom line the player needs to perform consistently on the ice!!

Hope this helps - Good luck!

Martial