TRYOUTS FOR ECHL OR AHL OR NHL

Question
I WAS TRYING TO FIND OUT WHAT THE CUT OFF AGE IS FOR TRYOUTS AND IF THERE ARE EVEN ANY TRYOUTS AVIL. TO THE PUBLIC WITH A HOCKEY BACKGROUND

Answer
Shane,

Thanks for writing.  To answer your question will depend on several things that might or might not work out in your favor.  First, where are you from?  How long have you played? What is the highest level you have competed in?  Has your family (Dad) played in the NHL?  What are your skills like?  How old are you?

These are just a few things that one would need to know to see if you are even qualified for the try-out.  Most of those leagues that you referenced are teams that are NHL affiliates.  Which sometimes mean, you are drafted, then sent down to play for several years until you mature, then you get invited to the ball to dance.

Now, the rule of thumb is....you have to be playing Major Juniors at the age of 16, 17, 18, 19, 20...maybe 21, if you are lucky.  Now, don't read anything into this.  There have been those few that have gone on past 21.  But you will have to be exceptional.  This means that you will have to stand out from the rest.

Now, in order for you to even get looked at by a scout, you have to be on the scouting list.  In order for you to get there you have to be playing quality hockey at the age of Peewee's ( 11.5 years old to 13.5 years old) This is when the scouts start watching and keeping a dossier on you.

Then when you get about 16 years old, they start pushing you into Junior teams.  Once you are on a Junior team (Major Juniors) you are on the fast train to the NHL.  But, you just don't get on the team and think you are going to ride the train in the coast mode.

In order for you to get to the next level, you have to do things that other players will not do....like work.  When I say work, I mean on your skating work.  That's where you need to stand out.  You want to make it to the pro's...that's where you need to place most of your money and talent.  Not, passing, stick handling...skating!

So, here's what I recommend.  You want to go to a tryout at the CHL, AHL...etc.  If you have outstanding skating skills and they will be coming to you.

Head coach