Recruiting?

Question
Dear Mrs. Solimini,
    I am a goaltender from Pennsylvania, whose dream is to play NCAA division 1 men's ice hockey. I play 18u AA and just turned 15. I have so many questions about how to get somewhere in this fantastic sport. I am currently speaking with AAA teams out of state, but my family is unconvincible about letting me play AAA because they believe that it costs way to much money. I love my family, but I just want to make it somewhere in this sport, as I listed above. First, I wondered in recruiting videos, do they really work, and should you include music? Also what is the correct age to start talking to college coaches? Next, how do I find college coaches, and convince them that I am worthy of playing for there team? I hope that you have the time to answer my questions and I would greatly appreciate it.

Answer
Hi Luke
I was always surprised to learn that PA was not a big hockey place!
Yes videos are still used! No, do not add music! You do not need to send a "greatest saves" video either. Send a practice video and a game video to coaches of schools or clubs you are interested in (realistically). There are programs you can get into where you get put-up w/ a local family and get a small stipend or work a little job for money, but also get your uniforms and travel as part of the deal. You are a little young to get contacted by coaches, I believe they cannot contact you till you are a Junior in HS. You can however contact them and that is not too early. Participating in Showcases or camps during the summer where there are scouts is in your best interest too.
Any other questions or more clarity, let me know.