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Impressing Hockey Scouts: What You Need to Know
As a young hockey player with aspirations of playing at the highest level, it is important to understand what scouts look for when evaluating talent. Here, we will break down the key attributes that scouts pay attention to, and what you can do to stand out and make a positive impression.
Physical Skills:
Scouts are looking for players who possess exceptional physical skills, such as speed, agility, and stickhandling ability. To stand out, focus on improving these skills through regular practice and training. It's also important to showcase your physical abilities in game situations, as scouts pay close attention to how players perform under pressure.
Goals and Assists vs. Playing Right:
While goals and assists are important, scouts are also focused on players who play the game the right way. This includes making the right decisions with the puck, playing strong defense, and being effective in all three zones of the ice. To make a positive impression, focus on playing a complete game and making the right plays, not just trying to rack up points.
One term that scouts often use is "plus player," which refers to a player who makes a positive impact on the game, regardless of whether they score or not. To become a plus player, focus on doing the little things that help your team win, such as blocking shots, winning battles for loose pucks, and being strong on the penalty kill.
Hockey sense is the ability to read and understand the game, anticipate plays and make quick decisions. It is a critical component for any successful hockey player, as it allows them to react to the game in real-time and make smart decisions on the ice. Scouts look for players with good hockey sense, as it indicates they have a strong understanding of the game and are able to react to different situations effectively. A player with a high hockey IQ can greatly impact the outcome of a game, even if they do not lead the team in goals or assists. Thus, hockey sense is an important factor in a player's overall value and can make a big difference in their ability to perform at higher levels.
Mental Toughness and Competitiveness:
Scouts are looking for players who have a strong mental game, and who can handle the pressure and adversity that comes with playing at the highest level. To make a positive impression, focus on developing your mental toughness through regular training and preparation, and always compete at your highest level, no matter the situation.
Drive and determination are key characteristics of competitiveness that scouts look for in a player. A player with strong drive and determination is willing to do whatever it takes to succeed on the ice, whether it be battling in the corners, making the extra effort to backcheck, or showing courage when fighting for the puck. These qualities often cannot be taught, and they are what separate the good players from the great players. A player with drive and determination will work hard in every shift, and will not give up even when the going gets tough. This is what makes them valuable to their team, and it is what sets them apart from others who may have more natural talent but lack the determination to use it.
Work Ethic and Coachability:
Scouts also pay close attention to players who have a strong work ethic and are coachable. This means showing up to practices and games prepared and ready to work, and being open to feedback and instruction from your coaches. To make a positive impression, focus on being the best teammate you can be, and always looking for ways to improve and grow as a player.
Character and Attitude:
Finally, scouts are looking for players with strong character and a positive attitude. This means being a good person on and off the ice, and treating everyone with respect and professionalism. To make a positive impression, focus on being a positive influence on your team, and always maintaining a humble and hardworking attitude.
Players with good character demonstrate leadership which is an essential quality for any successful hockey player. A leader on the ice sets an example for their teammates, inspires them to play their best and helps them to stay focused and confident. Good leaders are able to communicate effectively, make quick decisions and motivate their teammates to work together towards a common goal. Scouts and general managers look for players who show strong leadership skills, as they know that a team with a good leader is more likely to succeed. Players who demonstrate drive, determination and a willingness to take charge and make a difference are often highly valued by those in the hockey world, and are often the ones who rise to the top and achieve greatness.
Conclusion:
By focusing on these key attributes, you can improve your chances of impressing scouts and reaching your goal of playing at the highest level. Remember, scouts are looking for players who are well-rounded, have a strong work ethic, and are able to handle the pressure of playing at the highest level. With hard work and dedication, you can become the player that scouts are looking for.
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