JUNIOR HOCKEY

WHAT IS JUNIOR HOCKEY? 

In North America you play Juniors to develop your skills and strength. Juniors is the best and most common way to get to College Hockey. The rigorous schedule of 50-60 games plus playoffs prepare the player for the future.

Junior Hockey is usually available to players who are 20 and under as of the 31st day of December of the current season of competition. Junior Hockey in North America is typically available for players for 1 more year compared to Europe.

There are different levels of Junior Hockey:

USA Hockey Tier 1: USHL

USA Hockey Tier 2: NAHL

USA Hockey Tier 3: NA3HL

Independent: NCDC, USPHL PREMIER, USPHL ELITE och EHL

USHL, NAHL and NCDC do not charge a player fee. Tier 3 and other Independent leagues do charge a player fee and the regular cost is typically between 6000 and 10 000 USD per season plus housing 450 USD/monthly.

NOTE! We always negotiate the player fee part for our clients making it more affordable.

HOW IS HOUSING ARRANGED? 

You will almost exclusively live with a billet family.

IS EQUIPMENT PROVIDED? 

In Tier 1 and Tier 2 most equipment is provided to you. In Tier 3 and other Independent leagues you are responsible for your own equipment but teams usually provide helmet, gloves and pants.

WHEN DOES THE SEASON START? 

Players usually report in late August or early September.

HOW MANY IMPORT PLAYERS ARE PERMITTED PER TEAM? 

USHL: 4 x European players.

NAHL: 4 x European players.

NA3HL: 4 x European player.

Independent: Unlimited with European players.

DO I NEED A CAR?

No, we strive to make sure that the player is placed in a billet family with a teammate or someone who has access to a car. Another option is that you live close to a teammate who can drive to practice and other activities.

DO I NEED A VISA? 

Yes. Usually a B2-Tourist visa. We will help you apply.

WHAT OTHER COSTS ARE THERE? 

Insurance, flights, spending money and in some cases depending on league, IIHF Transfer Card.

COLLEGE HOCKEY 

What is the Eligibility Center?

The Eligibility Center offers a certification for players who will participate in NCAA Division 1 sports. It confirms your amateur and academic status. If you have not been “cleared” by the Eligibility Center you cannot participate in NCAA Division 1 hockey.

What is housing like at college?

Usually dorms or apartments.

What studies are available?

You choose your ”Major” according to your interest and qualifications.

How long can you play College Hockey?

4 years.

When should I start the applications?

Preferably 1 year before anticipated start. Please note that the absolute best and easiest way to get to get recruited by colleges is to play Junior Hockey in the U.S. It helps you get adjusted to North American Hockey to play a lot of games and off the ice with the language and culture, etc.

How do I finance my education?

Through personal funds, student loans and scholarships.

What is the difference between NCAA Division 1 and 3?

In NCAA Division 1 you can receive an athletic (hockey) scholarship. Each team now has have 26 scholarships to give out but also a roster cap of 26 players.

In NCAA Division 3 you can only receive an academic scholarship.