Important Perspective on the College Hockey Recruiting Process
Dear Parents and Players,
I am writing to share some important observations and concerns regarding the college hockey recruiting process that I believe are necessary to address openly and constructively.
As coaches, we work diligently to identify and recruit players who can fill specific roles within our programs. This process requires significant time, evaluation, and coordination. Many coaches across multiple levels are in regular communication with one another, and there is growing concern about how some prospective student-athletes and families are approaching recruitment.
Given the recent and ongoing changes to the college hockey landscape at all levels, it has become clear that some players and parents may not fully understand the current realities of the process.
First and foremost, communication matters. When emails go unanswered for days, weeks, or not at all, it is viewed as disrespectful—not only to the coach, but to the recruiting process itself. Clear and timely communication, whether the response is positive or negative, is a fundamental expectation.
Regarding communication methods: most coaches do not manage recruiting through text messages. Professional correspondence should take place via email or phone calls. Coaches are not teammates, and recruiting should be handled with an appropriate level of professionalism.
It is also important to understand that recruitment decisions are not driven by individual statistics or online profiles. Players are evaluated and recruited because they fit a specific role within a program. Coaches determine those roles based on overall needs, not Elite Prospects pages or statistical disputes.
Please understand that coaches have a responsibility to build competitive rosters. If an offer is extended and not accepted within a reasonable timeframe, it will likely be offered to another player. Programs cannot and will not wait indefinitely.
There are a finite number of roster spots available each year. If you receive an offer from a program that also provides an academic pathway aligned with your goals, delaying a decision can be a costly mistake.
In reality, very few players have the luxury of choosing among multiple college hockey opportunities. More often than not, it is the coaching staff that determines where a player fits. Unless you are managing several legitimate offers, it is wise to seriously consider an opportunity while it remains available.
I wish all players the best of luck as they continue navigating their hockey and academic futures.
NCAA D3 Coach
