What the “Scouts” are really watching?

The recurring topic of: recruiting, evaluations, and “Scouting” comes up all so often. Understandably, for good reason, as every player aspires to advance to the highest levels they’re capable of. Here’s some helpful insight to gain an understanding as your athlete works toward their dreams:

Mite – Bantam Level Players

Spoiler alert: There’s no scouts in the stands handing out scholarships. Perhaps the odd HS coach taking a look; but that’s about it. From an evaluation stand-point the following characteristics are prioritized:

• Raw Ability
  • This will always jump off the page at any level. However, a player’s skill is only one part of the equation.
• Effort Level
  • Better believe evaluators are looking for the details in a player’s work ethic. Stopping on pucks, competing in ALL battles, etc.
• Attitude/Coach-ability
  • Does a player apply what they’re being taught? Are they carrying themselves with a positive attitude and “team-first” mentality?

Midget – Jr Level Players

If you’re sincere about truly taking your game to the highest level of Jr, NCAA, or beyond this is where the real work begins.

• Raw Ability
  • No question you have to have the skill set to produce at the “next level”.
• Potential
  • It’s not necessarily about the player you are today, as it is the player that you can become tomorrow.
• Needs of that team
  • STATS ARE NOT ALWAYS THE ANSWER. Sure, they can help, but believe me, scouts are looking at the role you will fill on their team, not just your points!