How to Get Recruited for NCAA Hockey as a Canadian Player

For many Canadian hockey players, the dream of competing in NCAA hockey has become more attainable, especially with recent changes to eligibility rules. Understanding these updates and the recruitment process is crucial for both male and female athletes aiming to play college hockey in the United States.

Understanding the Recent NCAA Eligibility Changes

Historically, players from the Canadian Hockey League (CHL)—comprising the OHL, WHL, and QMJHL—were considered professional athletes by the NCAA, making them ineligible for college hockey. However, a significant policy shift in November 2024 changed this:

CHL players can now retain NCAA eligibility if they meet specific conditions regarding contracts and professional benefits.
The rule change follows a legal challenge and aligns NCAA regulations with other pathways available to U.S. and international players.

For full details on these NCAA rule changes for CHL players, check out: NCAA Rule Changes on CHL

This update opens new pathways for Canadian players, making NCAA hockey a more accessible option than ever before.

Steps to Succeed in NCAA Hockey Recruitment for Canadian Players

1. Understand NCAA Eligibility Requirements

Even with the new rules, maintaining amateur status is essential. Players should:

Avoid signing professional contracts—engaging in professional play outside of the CHL can still impact eligibility.
Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center—ensuring all academic and amateurism standards are met.
Complete 16 NCAA-approved core courses to qualify academically.

To check NCAA academic and amateurism rules, visit the NCAA Eligibility Center.

2. Play in NCAA-Recognized Junior Leagues

Most NCAA hockey players come from junior leagues in Canada or the U.S. While CHL players now have a pathway, Junior A leagues remain the most common route to NCAA hockey.

Best Junior Leagues for NCAA Recruitment:

BCHL (British Columbia Hockey League) – A top NCAA-feeder league
AJHL (Alberta Junior Hockey League) – Produces many NCAA Division 1 commits
USHL (United States Hockey League) – The top U.S. junior league for NCAA-bound players
NAHL (North American Hockey League) – A strong NCAA Division 1 and 3 pathway
OJHL (Ontario Junior Hockey League) – Frequently develops NCAA prospects

If you're in a lower-tier league, work on advancing to one of these leagues to increase visibility among NCAA coaches.

3. Contact NCAA Hockey Coaches Directly

Unlike other NCAA sports, hockey coaches often scout players over several years before making offers. However, reaching out to coaches can increase your chances of being recruited.

Example Email to an NCAA Hockey Coach:

Subject: Interest in [School Name] Hockey – Class of [Grad Year]

Dear Coach [Last Name],

My name is [Your Name], and I’m a [Position] currently playing for [Junior Team Name] in the [League Name]. I am very interested in your program and would love the opportunity to contribute to your team.

Here are my current stats and details:

Height/Weight: [X’X” / XXX lbs]
Current Team: [Team Name]
Junior League: [BCHL/AJHL/USHL, etc.]
GPA: [Academic info if strong]
Highlight Video: [Insert link]
Full Game Footage: [Insert link]

I would appreciate any feedback and would love to discuss how I could fit into your recruiting plans. Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,[Your Full Name][Your Contact Information]

4. Attend NCAA Hockey Showcases and Camps

Many NCAA coaches attend showcase tournaments to scout talent. To get noticed:

Attend NCAA-exposure hockey camps.
Play in high-profile tournaments.
Visit NCAA programs and attend prospect camps if possible.

5. Maintain Strong Academics

NCAA hockey teams expect players to be academically strong. Many schools offer scholarships based on academics, so maintaining a solid GPA and taking SAT/ACT exams can improve your chances.

Women's NCAA Hockey Recruitment

For female hockey players, the NCAA is one of the best development paths leading to U.S. college hockey and professional opportunities. The process differs slightly from men’s hockey:

More direct recruiting from Canadian prep schools and U18 programs.
Less emphasis on junior leagues—players are recruited straight from U18 AAA, prep schools, or Hockey Canada programs.
Earlier commitment process—many women’s players commit by Grade 11 or earlier.

To get recruited for women’s NCAA hockey:

Play for U18 AAA, provincial teams, or elite prep schools.
Contact NCAA coaches earlier in the process than men’s players.
Maintain a high academic standing—many top NCAA women's programs prioritize strong academics.

Example: How a Canadian Hockey Player Got Recruited

Mark, a defenseman from Ontario, played in the OJHL and wasn’t receiving much attention from NCAA schools. Instead of waiting, he:

Emailed 20 NCAA coaches with his stats and game footage.
Attended an NCAA showcase event, where he spoke to multiple scouts.
Focused on improving his defensive play and skating.

By the end of his junior season, he had an offer from a Division 1 school, proving that persistence and exposure matter.

Your Next Steps to Get NCAA Hockey Offers

Understand the updated eligibility rules for CHL and junior hockey.
Play in NCAA-recognized junior leagues like the BCHL, AJHL, or USHL.
Reach out to NCAA coaches with stats and game footage.
Attend NCAA-exposure camps to get noticed.
Maintain strong academics to qualify for more scholarships.

For more on CHL eligibility updates, check out: NCAA Rule Changes on CHL

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I play NCAA hockey if I played in the CHL?

Yes, under new NCAA rules, CHL players may retain eligibility if they meet specific conditions.

Q2: Do NCAA hockey teams offer full scholarships?

Yes, but only some players receive full scholarships. Many receive partial scholarships or academic aid.

Q3: What age do most players commit to NCAA hockey?

Most commit between ages 17-20, often after playing Junior A hockey.

Q4: How can I get noticed by NCAA hockey scouts?

Play in high-level junior leagues, attend NCAA camps, and email coaches directly.

Q5: What is the best junior league for NCAA-bound players?

The BCHL, AJHL, USHL, and NAHL produce the most NCAA hockey players.

Conclusion

Getting recruited for NCAA hockey as a Canadian player requires a smart strategy, the right league, and proactive outreach. By understanding eligibility, playing in top junior leagues, contacting NCAA coaches, and maintaining strong academics, you can maximize your chances of securing a college hockey opportunity.

If NCAA hockey is your goal, start preparing today—because the right preparation leads to the best opportunities.