To be sure the Spring, or the “recruiting season” as it is also known, can be a very confusing time. These are some helpful hint question to ask, and some sample answer to look for if you don’t have an Adviser or Agent doing the work for you.
Where do you see me fitting into your organization?
If they answer that they will give you an opportunity to compete for a certain job. That is the good and honest answer you want to hear. You should expect to go into an organization and work hard to earn your position. Nothing should be given, all should be earned.
Now if you hear the answer “You are our top guy” at any position. Do not take that to mean you will always be the “top guy” you should take it to mean that they hope you will be a top guy, but again you must earn everything.
Do not believe the “promise” of anything more than opportunity.
How many players has the team moved on to higher levels recently?
If they say none, or unwilling to answer, do you really want to play for a team like that?
What is your coaching philosophy?
Ask about systems yes, but what is the coaching style? Is it a strict on ice system? Does it fit you style of play? Do the coach yell and scream all the time? Is there a personality match with player and coach?
Do not ask about fans. Stupid player care about fans. Fans do not develop you game or move you to higher level in the future.
Do not ask about the dressing room. The nice dressing room do not get you to next level. You only spend a short period of each day in the room, you not going to sleep there.
If you really want to be the hockey player, start taking the process seriously. If not, no one will take you seriously anyway. If you don’t ask these question, hire an Adviser or Agent who will.
Coach
