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Category: Girls Hockey

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Development Camp Girls Hockey Player Development

Observations from the 2023 USA Hockey Pacific District Camp

Earlier this month my daughter attended the USA Hockey Pacific District Camp for the third and final time (she’s aging out of the U18 events).  Now that the results have been posted, I am posting my thoughts on this year’s event. Feel free to read my previous summaries from the 2021 camp and 2022 camp to understand the three year experience.

Overall, operationally speaking, this was clearly the best run district camp of the three she attended.

Just like previous years, there were three practice/skills sessions and three games. The practice/skills sessions were well organized and structured – and in my opinion, allowed the evaluators to see how players performed both offensively and defensively beyond just the games.

More Teams

There were some significant changes from previous years.  First, the number of teams for the 16/17 age group was increased from 4 teams to 6 teams (the 15’s age group had 4 teams similar to last year). There are arguments to be made on both sides about the pros and cons of increasing the number of players invited to attend. However, on-balance, as we try to grow the girls game on the west coast, I think it worked out just fine. The overall level of play may have been a little diluted, but the goodwill from attending the event works for me. Plus, the extra money it generated allowed more USA Hockey staff to attend from all over the country. 

More Coaches

Unlike the last couple of years where it seemed to be only 2-4 coaches watching from the stands while another 2 coached from the bench. There seemed to always be at least ~6-8 coaches scouting from the roped-off coaches section in the stand.  Another big change, as referenced above, was not only the number of participating coaches, but also the list of coaches and their role during the weekend was shared with all attendees via email.  In the past, I had to work hard to identify who all the coaches were and decipher the role they played. The day after camp ended, we were emailed the full list of coaches, where they were from and what role they played (evaluator, volunteer, USA Hockey Staff) – which was awesome.  No more guessing.

The only complaint I heard via several parents (from their daughters) was that it seemed that some of the coaches were over-coaching on the ice. There were lots of times coaches would stop drills and call everyone over or a coach would give detailed feedback to a specific player.  Feedback is good – I love player feedback – but at an event like Districts, players don’t want to get drill-related  feedback from every coach they interact with. What players really want is feedback on how to improve their overall game.

Same Number of National Camp Spots

I am not sure what players and parents expected in terms of realistically making the USA Hockey National Camps, but the odds aren’t good for most players.  Here are the numbers of National invites (based on % of registrations of girls in the Pacific District):

Notes:

  1. Only 1 2008 forward was selected to go straight to the 18s Camp (last year 1F and 1 D went straight to 18s)
  2. Goalies are selected at the national level and not dependent on the proportion of district registrations

So hopefully, most players, especially those who were invited from the alternate lists (or not even originally selected) understood they were long shots to make it National Camp and were just happy to go to Las Vegas.

Goalie Development

Another positive from the event was when I talked to the goalie coaches for the district and she explained how they evaluate goalies, the process of providing goalies feedback and tracking their development from year-to-year.  I wish they would have done something similar for skaters – because in the 3 years we’ve gone, there has been no pro-active mechanism to receive feedback from the event for skaters.

A few other points:

  • Games were two 32 minute running-time halves – which was 2 minutes more than last year
  • The refs were less noticeable this year compared to last year.  Which is a good thing.
  • The jerseys were 100 times nicer than previous years (not embarrassing to have mismatched jerseys and socks like last year) – with a number scheme which made it clear who were 2006s and 2007s.
  • It would have been nice to also have the jersey #s included in the roster lists that were sent out so parents didn’t need to try to figure who the players were by themselves
  • Everyone had to travel to Vegas for the weekend, with many coming from out-of-district.  I hope parents and players felt that the total cost of the weekend was worth it. Unless you were driving from California, the weekend had to be super-expensive.
Categories
College Hockey Recruiting Development Camp Girl's Showcase Girls Hockey

2023 Girls Hockey Event Calendar

2023 Girls Hockey Event Calendar

Here is a list of 2023 Girls Hockey Tournaments, Showcases, Development Camps and Summer Camps.

This is a partial list. Feel free to submit a new event using our Feedback Form

OrganizationEventDatesLocationCityAges
College Hockey ShowcasesSpring Break ShowcaseApril 10-16, 2023Fort Meyers, FL2005-2011 Birth Years
College Hockey ShowcasesSt. Louis ShowcaseAugust 4-6, 2023Centene Community Ice ArenaSt Louis, MO2004-2010 Birth Years
College Hockey ShowcasesRocky Mountain ShowcaseJune 16th-18th, 2023South Suburban Recreation ComplexDenver, CO2005-2011 Birth Years
College Hockey ShowcasesSweden Girls High Performance CampJuly 17-28, 2023Nyköpings Arenor RosvallaNyköping, Sweden2003-2010 Birth Years
NAHANAHA COLLEGE SHOWCASEAugust 4-6, 2023Boston Sports InstituteWellesley, MA2024, '25, '26, '27 Grad Years
NCD CampsGIRLS NCDC COLLEGE DEVELOPMENT CAMPJuly 31 - August 2, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MA2024, '25, '26, '27 Grad Years
Premier Ice ProspectsHockey Hall of Fame Future LegendsApril 27 - 30, 2023Toronto, ON2011 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPIPs American DreamMay 5-7, 2023American DreamEast Rutherford, NJ2009 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPremier Prep ProspectsMay 11-14, 2023The Edge Sports CenterBoston, MA2008-2011 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPremier Prospects BostonMay 12-14, 2023The Edge Sports CenterBoston, MA2008-2009 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsTop ProspectsMay 19 - 21, 2023Hertz ArenaFort Meyers, FL2009 - 2013 Birth Year
Premier Ice ProspectsWestern Prospects CampJune 2-4, 2023Kraken Community IceplexSeattle, WA2006-2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice Prospects585 PIP ShowcaseJune 16-19, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2006-2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPIPs TournamentJune 23 - 25, 2023Rochester, NY2009 - 2012 Birth Years Tier I (AAA)
Premier Ice ProspectsGIRLS ELITE PROSPECTS CAMPJune 25-29, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2010 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice Prospects14U PROSPECTS CAMPJune 25-29, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2008 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPROSPECTS GOALIE CAMPJune 25-29, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2007 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPREMIER PROSPECTS COMBINEJuly 6-9, 2023UPMC Sports ComplexCranberry, PA2009 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsSOUTHERN PROSPECTS CAMPJuly 20-23, 2023Carolina Ice PalaceNorth Charleston, SC2011 - 2014 Birth Years
Premier Ice Prospects617 PIP SHOWCASE - BOSTON HARBOR STYLEJuly 26-27, 2023The Edge Sports CenterBedford, MA2024, '25, '26 Grad Years
Premier Ice Prospects480 SHOWCASE - DESERT STYLEAugust 3-6, 2023Mullett ArenaTempe, AZ2006 - 2008 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsSOUTHWEST PROSPECTSAugust 4-6, 2023Mullett ArenaTempe, AZ2009 - 2012 Birth Year
Premier Ice Prospects615 PIP SHOWCASE - MUSIC CITY STYLEAugust 10-13, 2023Predators' Ford Ice CenterBellevue, TN2009 - 2010 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsNIAGARA FALLS PROPSPECTS CAMPAugust 2023Gale Centre ArenaNiagara Falls, ON2006 - 2010 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsMrs. Hockey® InviteJanuary 12 - 15, 2024Ft Lauderdale, FL12U Girls - Tier 1 & Tier 2
Premier Ice ProspectsFort Laudy Daudy ShowcaseJanuary 12 - 14, 2024Ft Lauderdale, FL19U through 14U Tier 1
Premier Ice ProspectsGreat Lakes Girls FestFebruary 2-4, 2024Detroit, MI19U through 10U Tier II
Premier Ice ProspectsMotor City Girls FestFebruary 2-4, 2024Detroit, MI19U through 10U Tier I
Premier Ice ProspectsPIPs RochesterJune 23-25 2023Rochester, NY2009 thru 2012 Birth Years Tier I (AAA)
Premier Ice ProspectsLabor Day Girls FestSeptember 1-3 2023Pittsburgh, PA14U, 16U/17U and 19U Tier I (AAA)/Canadian AA
Premier Ice ProspectsFrieda Falcon Girls FestSeptember 8 - 10, 2023Slater Family Ice ArenaBowling Green, OH12U USA Tier I / CAN A
Premier Ice ProspectsCapital Cup Girls FestOctober 7-9, 2023Northern VA19U through 10U Tier II
Premier Ice ProspectsRoc City Girls FestOctober 27-29, 2023Rochester, NY19U through 10U
Premier Ice ProspectsRoc City Girls FestNovember 3-5, 2023Rochester, NY19U through 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA), Tier III (A)
Premier Ice ProspectsBurgh Thanksgiving Girls FestNovember 24-26, 2023Pittsburgh, PA19U through 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA), Tier III (A)
Premier Ice ProspectsSmashville Girls FestNovember 24-26, 2023Nashville, TN19U through 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA), Tier III (A)
Premier Ice ProspectsErie White Out WeekendDecember 8-10, 2023Erie, PA12U and 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA)
RUSH HockeyFlorida RUSHJanuary 13-16, 2023Palm Beach Skate ZoneWest Palm Beach, FLGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyRush Spring Showcase (Florida)April 21-23, 2023Palm Beach Skate ZoneWest Palm Beach, FL2024, '25, '26, '27, '28 Grad Years
RUSH HockeyConnecticut RushJune 9-11, 2023Northford Ice PavilionNorthford, CT2009 - 2011 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRush College ShowcaseJune 22-25, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ON2006 - 2009 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRUSH RISING STARS PRE-COLLEGE SHOWCASEJune 15-18, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ON2010 and 2011 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRUSH ATOMIC CHALLENGEJune 15-18, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ON2012 and 2013 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRUSH Hockey High PerformanceAugust 4-6, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ONU11 - U22 AA
RUSH HockeyBEANTOWN CLASSICJuly 21-23, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MA2009 - 2013 Birth Years, College / Super Series
RUSH HockeyBEANTOWN CLASSICJuly 28-30, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MAU19, 2008
RUSH HockeyBUFFALO RUSH HOCKEY INFERNOTBDBuffalo, NYGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyPHILADELPHIA RUSHTBDPhiladelphia, PAGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyNEW ENGLAND RUSHTBDBoston, NAGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyNORTH HALTON RUSHTBDNorth Halton, ONU11-U18 AA/A/BB/B
RUSH HockeyTWO NATIONS COLLEGE PREP SERIESTBDBrampton, ON & Detroit, MI19U through 12U Tier 1; U13-U21 AA
Showcase Hockey2023 Minnesota Meltdown AAA TournamentApril 21-23, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Independent ClassicMay 19-21, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 AAA Summer ShowdownJune 09-11, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 International CupAugust 4-6, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Easton AAA Cup TournamentAugust 18-20, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Summer FinaleAugust 25-27, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Warrior Cup AAASeptember 8-10, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
200x85 TournamentsCCM MLK GirlsJan 14-16, 2023Massachusetts12U - 19U AAA/AA
200x85 TournamentsCCM CHI-TOWN SHUFFLEApril 21-23, 2023Chicago, ILGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
200x85 TournamentsCCM GIRLS WORLD INVITE DETROITNovember 10-12, 2023Detroit, MITier 1 – G12U, G14U, G16U, G19U
200x85 TournamentsCCM GIRLS WINDY CITY ELITE – CHICAGODecember 1-3, 2023Chicago, ILTier 1 – G12U, G14U, G16U, G19U
200x85 TournamentsCCM Girls 68 (14U)August 10-13, 2023Chicago, IL2009 Birthyear
The National Girls Hockey LeagueNGHL NCAA Exposure Camp in York, PAMay 19-21, 2023York, PA2004 - 2010 Birth Years
The National Girls Hockey LeagueNGHL NCAA Exposure Camp in Newington, CTJune 10-11, 2023Newington, CT2004 - 2010 Birth Years
The National Girls Hockey LeagueDawg Days of Summer - RedAugust 25-27, 2023Northford, CT12U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueDawg Days of Summer - FuturesAugust 25-27, 2023Newington, CT12U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueLabor Day Challenge - BlueSeptember 2-4, 2023Cromwell, CT12U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueLabor Day Challenge - FuturesSeptember 2-4, 2023Cromwell, CT12U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueFall Classic - RedOctober 7-9, 2023Syracuse, NY14U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueFall Classic - FuturesOctober 7-9, 2023Buffalo, NY10U & 12U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueNGHL MichiganNovember 17-19, 2023Ann Arbor, MI14U - 19U Tier 1
The National Girls Hockey LeagueMile High Invitational - BlueNovember 26-29, 2023Denver, CO12U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueMLK Winter Classic - BlueJanuary 13-15, 2024 Haverhill, MA12U, 14U, 16U, and 19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueMLK Winter Classic - RedJanuary 13-15, 2024 Philadelphia, PA14-19U Tier 1
The National Girls Hockey LeagueRed Division ChampsionshipFebruary 2-4, 2024Rockland, MA14-19U Tier 1
North American Premier Women's ShowcaseNorth American Premier Women's Showcase College DivisionJune 23-25th, 2023Merrimack College Athletics ComplexNorth Andover, MABirth Years 2005-2009 (PG's also Allowed)
JWHLChallenge Cup 2023February 17-20, 2023Rockville/Arlington, VA14U, 16U, 19U
North American Female Elite ShowcaseThe Orion Top ProspectsJune 15-18, 2023Blaine, MN2006 - 2011 Birth Years
Pony Tail Tournament Pony Tail Tournament March 17-19, 2023Baltimore, MDU10, U12A, U12B, U14A, U14B, U16A, U16B, U19
The Rose SeriesCowgirl ShootoutApril 20-23 2023Nashville, TN2011 Birth Years
The Rose SeriesLow Country ClassicMay 11-14, 2023Charleston, SC2010 Birth Year
The Rose SeriesThe Battle at the BeachJuly 6-9, 2023Fort Meyers, FL2009 Birth Year
The Rose SeriesQueens of VegasJuly 11-14, 2023Las Vegas, NV2012 Birth Years
The Rose SeriesOC Freeze OutJuly 13-16, 2023Anaheim, CA2013 Birth Year
The Rose SeriesWar for the RosesJuly 10-15, 2023Edmonton, Alberta2010 Birth Year
USA HockeyUSA Hockey Girls 15's Player Development CampJuly 10-15, 2023Miami University Oxford, Ohio2008 Birth Year
USA HockeyUSA Hockey Girls 16/17's Player Development CampJune 24-30, 2023Miami University Oxford, Ohio2006 & 2007 Birth Year
USA HockeyUSA Hockey Girls Under 18 Player Development CampJuly 16-22, 2023Miami University Oxford, Ohio2006, 2007, 2008 Birth Year
USA Hockey2023 Women's National FestivalAugust 7-12, 2023TBD
Colgate UniversityCOLGATE EXPOSURE CAMPS Session 1July 17-19, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NY2004-2009 Birth Years
Colgate UniversityCOLGATE EXPOSURE CAMPS Session 2July 19-21, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NY2004-2009 Birth Years
OS HockeyPROSPECTS/FUTURES WEEKEND 1 CampJune 2-4, 2023Bloomington Ice GardensMinneapolis, MN
OS HockeyPROSPECTS/FUTURES WEEKEND 2 CampJuly 21-23, 2023Braemar ArenaMInneapolis, MN
OS Hockey2023 OS SPRING FESTIVALMarch 16th-19th, 2023Braemar ArenaMInneapolis, MN
OS Hockey2023 WHITECAPS CUP (HS)MInneapolis, MNHigh School
OS Hockey2023 TRADITION CUPAugust 4th-6th, 2023Braemar ArenaMInneapolis, MNCollege Level
OS Hockey2023 OS SHOOTOUTAugust 10th-13th, 2023Bloomington Ice Garden and Braemar Ice ArenaMInneapolis, MNU8-U19
Girls Elite Hockey2023 TRADITION NITOctober 20-22, 2023Blaine, MNU16 and U19
University of Wisconsin13 and Under CampJune 26-30, 2023LaBahn ArenaMadison, WI13 and under
University of WisconsinHigh School Elite CampAugust 7-10, 2023LaBahn ArenaMadison, WIHigh School
Princeton UniversityGIRLS ICE HOCKEY ELITE CAMPJuly 7-9, 2023Baker RinkPrinceton, NJEntering grades 10-12
Princeton UniversityGIRLS ICE HOCKEY EXPOSURE ID CAMPJuly 10-12, 2023Baker RinkPrinceton, NJEntering grades 7-9
Merrimack CollegeMerrimack Womens Ice Hockey ClinicsAugust 18, 2023Lawler ArenaNorth Andover, MAEntering grades 9-12
RinkSportRinkSport College Development Camp June 17-22, 2023 Babson CollegeBoston, MA2027 High School graduates or earlier
Pre-Prep ShowcasePre-Prep ShowcaseAugust 3rd-6th, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MABirth Years: 2008, 2009 & 2010
Ohio State UniversityYOUTH CAMPJUNE 19-22, 2023OSU Ice RinkColumbus, OHU8/U10 and U12 age level
Ohio State UniversityELITE DAY CAMPJuly 15, 2023OSU Ice RinkColumbus, OHGrad Years: 2025-2027
Ohio State UniversityHIGH SCHOOL ELITE CAMPSJUNE 22-23 AND JULY 8-9OSU Ice RinkColumbus, OHGrad Years: 2025-2027
University of Maine Beantown Prospect CampJuly 24-25, 2023University of MaineOrono, MESkaters entering grades 8-12
University of Maine High School Performance Camp - Day CampersJuly 30 - Aug. 4, 2023University of MaineOrono, MESkaters entering grades 8-12
University of Maine High School Performance Camp - Overnight CampersJuly 30 - Aug. 4, 2023University of MaineOrono, MESkaters entering grades 8-12
University of Maine Goalie CampAug. 4-6, 2023University of MaineOrono, MEAges 12-19
University of Maine U8/U10/U12 Skills CampAug. 7-11, 2023University of MaineOrono, MEU8/U10/U12
Brown UniversityBROWN WOMEN’S HOCKEY ELITE SUMMER CAMPJuly 31 - Aug 2, 2023Brown UniversityProvidence, RIHigh school students entering grades 9-12. Therefore, 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027 high school graduates.
Mercyhurst UniversityDIVISION I WOMEN'S HOCKEY ELITE CAMPJuly 31, 2023Mercyhurst UniversityErie, PA2005 to 2008 birth year
Colgate University2023 COLGATE EXPOSURE CAMP | PRE-CAMP GOALIE'S ONLYJuly 14-16, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NYGoalies Only. All Female players born between 2004-2009
Colgate University2023 COLGATE EXPOSURE CAMP | SESSION 1July 17-19, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NYAll Female players born between 2004-2009
Colgate University2023 COLGATE EXPOSURE CAMP | SESSION 2July 19-21, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NYAll Female players born between 2004-2009
College of the Holy CrossHoly Cross Women's Ice Hockey ClinicsAug 29-30, 2023Hart CenterWorcester, MA14-19 Years Old
St Anselm CollegeComing soonJuly 17-19, 2023Sullivan ArenaBedford, NH
Clarkson UniversityClarkson Golden Knight Women's Hockey Prospect Camp 2023Jul 21-22, 2023Cheel Campus Center and ArenaPotsdam, NY2006-2009 Birth Years
St Cloud State UniversitySt. Cloud State Women's Hockey CampsAugust 14th - 17thHerb Brooks National Hockey CenterSt. Cloud, MinnesotaAges 6-16
Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac Women's Ice Hockey Girls Camp July 10th-14th, 2023M&T Bank ArenaHamden, ConnAges: 6-13
Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac Women's Ice Hockey Girls Elite ClinicJuly 27th, 2023M&T Bank ArenaHamden, ConnAges: rising 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grade
University of MinnesotaMINNESOTA GIRLS HOCKEY CAMPSJune 12-14, 2023Mariucci ArenaMinneapolis, MN10U &12U Camp
University of MinnesotaMINNESOTA GIRLS HOCKEY CAMPSJune 15-16, 2023Mariucci ArenaMinneapolis, MNExposure Camp (ages 13,14)
University of MinnesotaMINNESOTA GIRLS HOCKEY CAMPSJune 19-21 and 21-23, 2023Mariucci ArenaMinneapolis, MN​​High School/ Varsity Camp #1 & #2
University of Minnesota DuluthMinnesota Duluth High School Elite CampJuly 26-28, 2023Amsoil ArenaDuluth, MNAny and all high school girls (grad years 2025-2028) are invited
Categories
College Hockey Recruiting Girls Hockey USA Hockey Nationals Women's College Hockey Youth Hockey

5 Observations From Attending USA Hockey Nationals

USA Hockey Nationals 2023

A couple of weeks ago I attended my first USA Hockey National Championship.  I was in both Dallas for the Girls Tier I round robin games and New Jersey for several Youth 15O games. Here are a few things I learned while I was there – mostly from my time in Dallas.

1. Accurate Seedings

For Girls Tier 1, 23 of the 24 Top 8 seeds qualified for the quarterfinals from 14U, 16U and 19U.  Which shows how accurate and reliable the rankings that are used to decide the both the at-large invitations and seedings are. However, once in the playoff round, the lower ranked teams had a reasonable chance to win, with many of the higher seeds losing to lower seeds.  On the Youth side, only 24 of the 32 teams made it to the quarters.

2. Scouts Everywhere

In both locations, I saw coaches scouting players at every round robin game. On the youth side, there were junior and college coaches in every corner and in the stands.  For the girls,nearly every DI college and many DIII coaches were along the glass and in specially designated areas to watch all the 16U games and many 14U and 19U games.  

While Nationals, clearly isn’t the only opportunity to be seen, it certainly helps. It is a big deal. So I now understand why making Nationals from highly-competitive districts is so important to winning their district if they won’t be one of the 3 at-large invitation teams.

I also saw several DIII coaches talking to eligible players who hadn’t committed yet after games.

3. Many Scouts Left After the Preliminary Divisional Games

I flew back to New Jersey from Dallas at the end of the round-robin play, and saw many coaches checking out of our hotel or pulling their carry-on bags on that Saturday. Clearly they were heading home after 3 days of non-stop games.  Based on my previous conversations with coaches, if they are efficient in their scouting, they will have seen enough of all the players they were watching. 

4. Networking Galore

I happened to be staying in a hotel where many other NCAA coaches were staying.  I was able to view first-hand lots of talks happening between team coaches and college coaches in both the arena and the hotel lobby/bars.  Once again, reinforcing the importance of being at Nationals for the recruiting process.  I know of at least one eligible player who was contacted after Nationals based on their appearance at Nationals.

USA-Hockey

5. USA Hockey Scouts in Attendance

It was nice to see at least two USA Hockey representatives watching games and players.  I am assuming it was in anticipation of the upcoming USA Hockey District camps taking in place in May and June to select player for the 15’s, 16/17s and 18’s Camps.  This gives USA Hockey a bigger body of work to judge players rather and greater level of consistency across districts rather than just relying on the coaches who may only attend one or two District camps.

Categories
College Hockey Recruiting Girls Hockey Women's College Hockey Women's Hockey

The Current State of Recruiting for DI Women’s College Hockey Defense

This is the Third and Final Post detailing the current opportunities for potential female Hockey recruits at DI Schools

In our previous posts we reviewed the status of goaltender recruits at all the DI women’s hockey programs and a similar post for the forward position.

As a reminder, the research compiled all the roster information for players from current DI women’s hockey team websites and combined them with the latest public women’s college hockey commitment data to help determine where spots have been filled and which schools may still be looking for players to start in the 2023 and 2024 school years.

Keep in mind, due to Covid, players who started playing in 2018 or 2019 were given an extra year of eligibility. In addition, 12 schools (all the Ivys, most of NEWHA plus Union and RPI) did not play in 2020-21 – so their 2018 or 2019 players can still be on their rosters for another season or two.

Finally, many of these extra-year players have the option to either stop playing after their 4th year of playing, transfer & play one more year elsewhere or stay-and-play for a 5th year at their current school. This makes predicting which teams would be looking for freshmen goalies in 2023 and 2024 tough, since many schools might prefer an experienced transfer student. It is very possible that even the coaching staffs for these schools may not know for sure what their student-athletes will do.

Here is the analysis which tries to shed light on where defenders are committed and current players are getting to the end of their college careers (by year).

DI Womens Hockey DEfense By Grad Year & Class

The following (ugly looking) table shows the number of D by class year on their current roster and their anticipated graduation year. Then the currently publicly known number of D commits by start year is also provided.

Note: Gray teams did not play in 2020-21 and thus have players with an extra year of eligibility even though they are currently listed as a Jr or Sr.

Players that are designated as 0.5 F and 0.5D if they are listed as both positions on their team’s website.

If you are a 2023 or 2024 D, the above table may help guide you to certain teams that may still be looking for defenders.

A few observations and notes:

  • If there are ~340 D positions, then usually ~85 D should be recruited every year.
  • It looks like ~15 D spots have shifted from 2023/24 to 2025. So ~15 less spots will be available for 2023/24 grads combined (~155 spots)
  • Average D players on a team is ~8, but there are 4 teams with 10 or more D that will likely not replace 1 or 2 of those slots
  • It appears as though many of the 2023 Defense spots are already taken but there is likely still another ~15 spots available across a handful of schools.
  • If you are a 2024 grad, many spots still appear to be open. However, 2025 looks like it will have more openings than usual, so you could also consider taking a Post Grad year (~100 for 2025 vs ~70 for 2024).

If you had a different experience or have additional thoughts or questions, feel free to reach out on social media or here to share your thoughts or experience.

Categories
College Hockey Recruiting Development Camp Girl's Showcase Girls Hockey

2023 Girls Hockey Event Calendar

2023 Girls Hockey Event Calendar

Here is a list of 2023 Girls Hockey Tournaments, Showcases, Development Camps and Summer Camps.

This is a partial list. Feel free to submit a new event using our Feedback Form

OrganizationEventDatesLocationCityAges
College Hockey ShowcasesSpring Break ShowcaseApril 10-16, 2023Fort Meyers, FL2005-2011 Birth Years
College Hockey ShowcasesSt. Louis ShowcaseAugust 4-6, 2023Centene Community Ice ArenaSt Louis, MO2004-2010 Birth Years
College Hockey ShowcasesRocky Mountain ShowcaseJune 16th-18th, 2023South Suburban Recreation ComplexDenver, CO2005-2011 Birth Years
College Hockey ShowcasesSweden Girls High Performance CampJuly 17-28, 2023Nyköpings Arenor RosvallaNyköping, Sweden2003-2010 Birth Years
NAHANAHA COLLEGE SHOWCASEAugust 4-6, 2023Boston Sports InstituteWellesley, MA2024, '25, '26, '27 Grad Years
NCD CampsGIRLS NCDC COLLEGE DEVELOPMENT CAMPJuly 31 - August 2, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MA2024, '25, '26, '27 Grad Years
Premier Ice ProspectsHockey Hall of Fame Future LegendsApril 27 - 30, 2023Toronto, ON2011 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPIPs American DreamMay 5-7, 2023American DreamEast Rutherford, NJ2009 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPremier Prep ProspectsMay 11-14, 2023The Edge Sports CenterBoston, MA2008-2011 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPremier Prospects BostonMay 12-14, 2023The Edge Sports CenterBoston, MA2008-2009 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsTop ProspectsMay 19 - 21, 2023Hertz ArenaFort Meyers, FL2009 - 2013 Birth Year
Premier Ice ProspectsWestern Prospects CampJune 2-4, 2023Kraken Community IceplexSeattle, WA2006-2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice Prospects585 PIP ShowcaseJune 16-19, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2006-2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPIPs TournamentJune 23 - 25, 2023Rochester, NY2009 - 2012 Birth Years Tier I (AAA)
Premier Ice ProspectsGIRLS ELITE PROSPECTS CAMPJune 25-29, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2010 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice Prospects14U PROSPECTS CAMPJune 25-29, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2008 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPROSPECTS GOALIE CAMPJune 25-29, 2023Bill Gray's Regional IceplexRochester, NY2007 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsPREMIER PROSPECTS COMBINEJuly 6-9, 2023UPMC Sports ComplexCranberry, PA2009 - 2012 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsSOUTHERN PROSPECTS CAMPJuly 20-23, 2023Carolina Ice PalaceNorth Charleston, SC2011 - 2014 Birth Years
Premier Ice Prospects617 PIP SHOWCASE - BOSTON HARBOR STYLEJuly 26-27, 2023The Edge Sports CenterBedford, MA2024, '25, '26 Grad Years
Premier Ice Prospects480 SHOWCASE - DESERT STYLEAugust 3-6, 2023Mullett ArenaTempe, AZ2006 - 2008 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsSOUTHWEST PROSPECTSAugust 4-6, 2023Mullett ArenaTempe, AZ2009 - 2012 Birth Year
Premier Ice Prospects615 PIP SHOWCASE - MUSIC CITY STYLEAugust 10-13, 2023Predators' Ford Ice CenterBellevue, TN2009 - 2010 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsNIAGARA FALLS PROPSPECTS CAMPAugust 2023Gale Centre ArenaNiagara Falls, ON2006 - 2010 Birth Years
Premier Ice ProspectsMrs. Hockey® InviteJanuary 12 - 15, 2024Ft Lauderdale, FL12U Girls - Tier 1 & Tier 2
Premier Ice ProspectsFort Laudy Daudy ShowcaseJanuary 12 - 14, 2024Ft Lauderdale, FL19U through 14U Tier 1
Premier Ice ProspectsGreat Lakes Girls FestFebruary 2-4, 2024Detroit, MI19U through 10U Tier II
Premier Ice ProspectsMotor City Girls FestFebruary 2-4, 2024Detroit, MI19U through 10U Tier I
Premier Ice ProspectsPIPs RochesterJune 23-25 2023Rochester, NY2009 thru 2012 Birth Years Tier I (AAA)
Premier Ice ProspectsLabor Day Girls FestSeptember 1-3 2023Pittsburgh, PA14U, 16U/17U and 19U Tier I (AAA)/Canadian AA
Premier Ice ProspectsFrieda Falcon Girls FestSeptember 8 - 10, 2023Slater Family Ice ArenaBowling Green, OH12U USA Tier I / CAN A
Premier Ice ProspectsCapital Cup Girls FestOctober 7-9, 2023Northern VA19U through 10U Tier II
Premier Ice ProspectsRoc City Girls FestOctober 27-29, 2023Rochester, NY19U through 10U
Premier Ice ProspectsRoc City Girls FestNovember 3-5, 2023Rochester, NY19U through 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA), Tier III (A)
Premier Ice ProspectsBurgh Thanksgiving Girls FestNovember 24-26, 2023Pittsburgh, PA19U through 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA), Tier III (A)
Premier Ice ProspectsSmashville Girls FestNovember 24-26, 2023Nashville, TN19U through 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA), Tier III (A)
Premier Ice ProspectsErie White Out WeekendDecember 8-10, 2023Erie, PA12U and 10U Tier I (AAA), Tier II (AA)
RUSH HockeyFlorida RUSHJanuary 13-16, 2023Palm Beach Skate ZoneWest Palm Beach, FLGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyRush Spring Showcase (Florida)April 21-23, 2023Palm Beach Skate ZoneWest Palm Beach, FL2024, '25, '26, '27, '28 Grad Years
RUSH HockeyConnecticut RushJune 9-11, 2023Northford Ice PavilionNorthford, CT2009 - 2011 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRush College ShowcaseJune 22-25, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ON2006 - 2009 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRUSH RISING STARS PRE-COLLEGE SHOWCASEJune 15-18, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ON2010 and 2011 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRUSH ATOMIC CHALLENGEJune 15-18, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ON2012 and 2013 Birth Years
RUSH HockeyRUSH Hockey High PerformanceAugust 4-6, 2023CAA Centre BramptonBrampton, ONU11 - U22 AA
RUSH HockeyBEANTOWN CLASSICJuly 21-23, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MA2009 - 2013 Birth Years, College / Super Series
RUSH HockeyBEANTOWN CLASSICJuly 28-30, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MAU19, 2008
RUSH HockeyBUFFALO RUSH HOCKEY INFERNOTBDBuffalo, NYGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyPHILADELPHIA RUSHTBDPhiladelphia, PAGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyNEW ENGLAND RUSHTBDBoston, NAGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
RUSH HockeyNORTH HALTON RUSHTBDNorth Halton, ONU11-U18 AA/A/BB/B
RUSH HockeyTWO NATIONS COLLEGE PREP SERIESTBDBrampton, ON & Detroit, MI19U through 12U Tier 1; U13-U21 AA
Showcase Hockey2023 Minnesota Meltdown AAA TournamentApril 21-23, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Independent ClassicMay 19-21, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 AAA Summer ShowdownJune 09-11, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 International CupAugust 4-6, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Easton AAA Cup TournamentAugust 18-20, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Summer FinaleAugust 25-27, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
Showcase Hockey2023 Warrior Cup AAASeptember 8-10, 2023MinnesotaGirls AAA (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
200x85 TournamentsCCM MLK GirlsJan 14-16, 2023Massachusetts12U - 19U AAA/AA
200x85 TournamentsCCM CHI-TOWN SHUFFLEApril 21-23, 2023Chicago, ILGirls Tier 1/Tier 2 (12U, 14U, 16U, 19U)
200x85 TournamentsCCM GIRLS WORLD INVITE DETROITNovember 10-12, 2023Detroit, MITier 1 – G12U, G14U, G16U, G19U
200x85 TournamentsCCM GIRLS WINDY CITY ELITE – CHICAGODecember 1-3, 2023Chicago, ILTier 1 – G12U, G14U, G16U, G19U
200x85 TournamentsCCM Girls 68 (14U)August 10-13, 2023Chicago, IL2009 Birthyear
The National Girls Hockey LeagueNGHL NCAA Exposure Camp in York, PAMay 19-21, 2023York, PA2004 - 2010 Birth Years
The National Girls Hockey LeagueNGHL NCAA Exposure Camp in Newington, CTJune 10-11, 2023Newington, CT2004 - 2010 Birth Years
The National Girls Hockey LeagueDawg Days of Summer - RedAugust 25-27, 2023Northford, CT12U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueDawg Days of Summer - FuturesAugust 25-27, 2023Newington, CT12U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueLabor Day Challenge - BlueSeptember 2-4, 2023Cromwell, CT12U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueLabor Day Challenge - FuturesSeptember 2-4, 2023Cromwell, CT12U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueFall Classic - RedOctober 7-9, 2023Syracuse, NY14U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueFall Classic - FuturesOctober 7-9, 2023Buffalo, NY10U & 12U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueNGHL MichiganNovember 17-19, 2023Ann Arbor, MI14U - 19U Tier 1
The National Girls Hockey LeagueMile High Invitational - BlueNovember 26-29, 2023Denver, CO12U-19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueMLK Winter Classic - BlueJanuary 13-15, 2024 Haverhill, MA12U, 14U, 16U, and 19U
The National Girls Hockey LeagueMLK Winter Classic - RedJanuary 13-15, 2024 Philadelphia, PA14-19U Tier 1
The National Girls Hockey LeagueRed Division ChampsionshipFebruary 2-4, 2024Rockland, MA14-19U Tier 1
North American Premier Women's ShowcaseNorth American Premier Women's Showcase College DivisionJune 23-25th, 2023Merrimack College Athletics ComplexNorth Andover, MABirth Years 2005-2009 (PG's also Allowed)
JWHLChallenge Cup 2023February 17-20, 2023Rockville/Arlington, VA14U, 16U, 19U
North American Female Elite ShowcaseThe Orion Top ProspectsJune 15-18, 2023Blaine, MN2006 - 2011 Birth Years
Pony Tail Tournament Pony Tail Tournament March 17-19, 2023Baltimore, MDU10, U12A, U12B, U14A, U14B, U16A, U16B, U19
The Rose SeriesCowgirl ShootoutApril 20-23 2023Nashville, TN2011 Birth Years
The Rose SeriesLow Country ClassicMay 11-14, 2023Charleston, SC2010 Birth Year
The Rose SeriesThe Battle at the BeachJuly 6-9, 2023Fort Meyers, FL2009 Birth Year
The Rose SeriesQueens of VegasJuly 11-14, 2023Las Vegas, NV2012 Birth Years
The Rose SeriesOC Freeze OutJuly 13-16, 2023Anaheim, CA2013 Birth Year
The Rose SeriesWar for the RosesJuly 10-15, 2023Edmonton, Alberta2010 Birth Year
USA HockeyUSA Hockey Girls 15's Player Development CampJuly 10-15, 2023Miami University Oxford, Ohio2008 Birth Year
USA HockeyUSA Hockey Girls 16/17's Player Development CampJune 24-30, 2023Miami University Oxford, Ohio2006 & 2007 Birth Year
USA HockeyUSA Hockey Girls Under 18 Player Development CampJuly 16-22, 2023Miami University Oxford, Ohio2006, 2007, 2008 Birth Year
USA Hockey2023 Women's National FestivalAugust 7-12, 2023TBD
Colgate UniversityCOLGATE EXPOSURE CAMPS Session 1July 17-19, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NY2004-2009 Birth Years
Colgate UniversityCOLGATE EXPOSURE CAMPS Session 2July 19-21, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NY2004-2009 Birth Years
OS HockeyPROSPECTS/FUTURES WEEKEND 1 CampJune 2-4, 2023Bloomington Ice GardensMinneapolis, MN
OS HockeyPROSPECTS/FUTURES WEEKEND 2 CampJuly 21-23, 2023Braemar ArenaMInneapolis, MN
OS Hockey2023 OS SPRING FESTIVALMarch 16th-19th, 2023Braemar ArenaMInneapolis, MN
OS Hockey2023 WHITECAPS CUP (HS)MInneapolis, MNHigh School
OS Hockey2023 TRADITION CUPAugust 4th-6th, 2023Braemar ArenaMInneapolis, MNCollege Level
OS Hockey2023 OS SHOOTOUTAugust 10th-13th, 2023Bloomington Ice Garden and Braemar Ice ArenaMInneapolis, MNU8-U19
Girls Elite Hockey2023 TRADITION NITOctober 20-22, 2023Blaine, MNU16 and U19
University of Wisconsin13 and Under CampJune 26-30, 2023LaBahn ArenaMadison, WI13 and under
University of WisconsinHigh School Elite CampAugust 7-10, 2023LaBahn ArenaMadison, WIHigh School
Princeton UniversityGIRLS ICE HOCKEY ELITE CAMPJuly 7-9, 2023Baker RinkPrinceton, NJEntering grades 10-12
Princeton UniversityGIRLS ICE HOCKEY EXPOSURE ID CAMPJuly 10-12, 2023Baker RinkPrinceton, NJEntering grades 7-9
Merrimack CollegeMerrimack Womens Ice Hockey ClinicsAugust 18, 2023Lawler ArenaNorth Andover, MAEntering grades 9-12
RinkSportRinkSport College Development Camp June 17-22, 2023 Babson CollegeBoston, MA2027 High School graduates or earlier
Pre-Prep ShowcasePre-Prep ShowcaseAugust 3rd-6th, 2023New England Sports CenterMarlborough, MABirth Years: 2008, 2009 & 2010
Ohio State UniversityYOUTH CAMPJUNE 19-22, 2023OSU Ice RinkColumbus, OHU8/U10 and U12 age level
Ohio State UniversityELITE DAY CAMPJuly 15, 2023OSU Ice RinkColumbus, OHGrad Years: 2025-2027
Ohio State UniversityHIGH SCHOOL ELITE CAMPSJUNE 22-23 AND JULY 8-9OSU Ice RinkColumbus, OHGrad Years: 2025-2027
University of Maine Beantown Prospect CampJuly 24-25, 2023University of MaineOrono, MESkaters entering grades 8-12
University of Maine High School Performance Camp - Day CampersJuly 30 - Aug. 4, 2023University of MaineOrono, MESkaters entering grades 8-12
University of Maine High School Performance Camp - Overnight CampersJuly 30 - Aug. 4, 2023University of MaineOrono, MESkaters entering grades 8-12
University of Maine Goalie CampAug. 4-6, 2023University of MaineOrono, MEAges 12-19
University of Maine U8/U10/U12 Skills CampAug. 7-11, 2023University of MaineOrono, MEU8/U10/U12
Brown UniversityBROWN WOMEN’S HOCKEY ELITE SUMMER CAMPJuly 31 - Aug 2, 2023Brown UniversityProvidence, RIHigh school students entering grades 9-12. Therefore, 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027 high school graduates.
Mercyhurst UniversityDIVISION I WOMEN'S HOCKEY ELITE CAMPJuly 31, 2023Mercyhurst UniversityErie, PA2005 to 2008 birth year
Colgate University2023 COLGATE EXPOSURE CAMP | PRE-CAMP GOALIE'S ONLYJuly 14-16, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NYGoalies Only. All Female players born between 2004-2009
Colgate University2023 COLGATE EXPOSURE CAMP | SESSION 1July 17-19, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NYAll Female players born between 2004-2009
Colgate University2023 COLGATE EXPOSURE CAMP | SESSION 2July 19-21, 2023Colgate UniversityHamilton, NYAll Female players born between 2004-2009
College of the Holy CrossHoly Cross Women's Ice Hockey ClinicsAug 29-30, 2023Hart CenterWorcester, MA14-19 Years Old
St Anselm CollegeComing soonJuly 17-19, 2023Sullivan ArenaBedford, NH
Clarkson UniversityClarkson Golden Knight Women's Hockey Prospect Camp 2023Jul 21-22, 2023Cheel Campus Center and ArenaPotsdam, NY2006-2009 Birth Years
St Cloud State UniversitySt. Cloud State Women's Hockey CampsAugust 14th - 17thHerb Brooks National Hockey CenterSt. Cloud, MinnesotaAges 6-16
Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac Women's Ice Hockey Girls Camp July 10th-14th, 2023M&T Bank ArenaHamden, ConnAges: 6-13
Quinnipiac UniversityQuinnipiac Women's Ice Hockey Girls Elite ClinicJuly 27th, 2023M&T Bank ArenaHamden, ConnAges: rising 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th grade
University of MinnesotaMINNESOTA GIRLS HOCKEY CAMPSJune 12-14, 2023Mariucci ArenaMinneapolis, MN10U &12U Camp
University of MinnesotaMINNESOTA GIRLS HOCKEY CAMPSJune 15-16, 2023Mariucci ArenaMinneapolis, MNExposure Camp (ages 13,14)
University of MinnesotaMINNESOTA GIRLS HOCKEY CAMPSJune 19-21 and 21-23, 2023Mariucci ArenaMinneapolis, MN​​High School/ Varsity Camp #1 & #2
University of Minnesota DuluthMinnesota Duluth High School Elite CampJuly 26-28, 2023Amsoil ArenaDuluth, MNAny and all high school girls (grad years 2025-2028) are invited
Categories
College Hockey Recruiting Girls Hockey Women's College Hockey Women's Hockey

The Current State of Recruiting for DI Women’s College Hockey Forwards

This is the second Post diving into detail on the current opportunities for potential female Hockey recruits at DI Schools

Updated January 21, 2023

We received a tremendous amount of positive feedback on our last post about the status of goaltender recruits at all the DI women’s hockey programs. As a result, we are publishing a similar post for the forward position.

As a reminder, the research compiled all the roster information for players from current DI women’s hockey team websites and combined them with the latest public women’s college hockey commitment data to help determine where spots have been filled and which schools may still be looking for players to start in the 2023 and 2024 school years.

Keep in mind, due to Covid, players who started playing in 2018 or 2019 were given an extra year of eligibility. In addition, 12 schools (all the Ivys, most of NEWHA plus Union and RPI) did not play in 2020-21 – so their 2018 or 2019 players can still be on their rosters for another season or two.

Finally, many of these extra-year players have the option to either stop playing after their 4th year of playing, transfer & play one more year elsewhere or stay-and-play for a 5th year at their current school. This makes predicting which teams would be looking for freshmen goalies in 2023 and 2024 tough, since many schools might prefer an experienced transfer student. It is very possible that even the coaching staffs for these schools may not know for sure what their student-athletes will do.

Here is the analysis which tries to shed light on where forwards are committed and current players are getting to the end of their college careers (by year).

DI Womens Hockey FOWARDS By Grad Year & Class

The following (ugly looking) table shows the number of forwards by class year on their current roster and their anticipated graduation year. Then the currently publicly known number of forward commits by start year is also provided.

Note: Gray teams did not play in 2020-21 and thus have players with an extra year of eligibility even though they are currently listed as a Jr or Sr.

Players that are designated as 0.5 F and 0.5D if they are listed as both positions on their team’s website.

If you are a 2023 or 2024 forward, the above table may help guide you to certain teams that may still be looking for skaters.

A few observations and notes:

  • If there are ~600 F positions, then usually ~150 F should be recruited every year.
  • It looks like ~25 F spots have shifted from 2023/24 to 2025. So ~25 less spots will be available for 2023/24 grads combined (~275 spots)
  • The average number of F per team is 14 players. But there are 9 teams with 16 or more Fs (likely due to Covid) which means at least 1 or 2 of those players will not be replaced on those teams.
  • It appears as though many of the 2023 Forward spots are already taken but there is likely still another 20-30 spots available across a handful of schools.
  • If you are a 2024 grad, you might also consider taking a Post Grad year and plan to start in 2025 when it seems there will be a lot more openings (~175 for 2025 vs ~130 for 2024).

The Current State of Recruiting for DI Women’s College Hockey Defense

If you had a different experience or have additional thoughts or questions, feel free to reach out on social media or here to share your thoughts or experience.

Categories
College Hockey Recruiting Girls Hockey Women's College Hockey Women's Hockey

The Current State of Goalie Recruiting for DI Women’s College Hockey

The Current State of Recruiting for DI Women’s College Hockey Forwards
The Current State of Recruiting for DI Women’s College Hockey Defense

Updated January 18, 2023

We receive a lot of questions and comments about the recent Goalie recruiting classes for DI women’s college hockey teams. Almost all of them related to how tough it is has been for 2023 and especially 2024 goalies to find DI opportunities.

Recently I compiled all the roster information for goalies from current DI women’s hockey team websites and combined them with the latest public women’s college hockey commitment data to try and makes sense of the what and why it seems so tough for goalies right now.

Due to Covid, players who started playing in 2018 or 2019 were given an extra year of eligibility. In addition, 12 schools (all the Ivys, most of NEWHA plus Union and RPI) did not play in 2020-21 – so their 2018 or 2019 players can still be on their rosters for another season or two.

Finally, many of these extra-year players have the option to either stop playing after their 4th year of playing, transfer & play one more year elsewhere or stay-and-play for a 5th year at their current school. This makes predicting which teams would be looking for freshmen goalies in 2023 and 2024 tough, since many schools might prefer an experienced transfer student. It is very possible that even the coaching staffs for these schools may not know for sure what their student-athletes will do.

Here is the analysis I compiled which tries to explain why goalie recruiting seems tighter than previous years and which teams could be looking for goalies (by year).

DI Womens Hockey Goalies By Grad Year & Class

The following (ugly looking) table shows the number of goalies by class year on their current roster and their anticipated graduation year. Then the currently publicly known number of goalie commits by start year is also provided.

Note: Gray teams did not play in 2020-21 and thus have players with an extra year of eligibility even though they are currently listed as a Jr or Sr.

If you are a 2023 or 2024 goalie, the above table may help guide you to certain teams that may still be looking for a goalie.

A few observations and notes:

  • In a “normal” year there should be about 33 freshman goalies per year (44 teams x 3 goalies per team / 4 years)
  • Several schools (e.g. Clarkson, Merrimack, Ohio State) already have four goalies on their roster – so they likely would want to get that number down to three – thus not replace all their current upper-class goalies one-for-one.
  • It appears as thought most of the 2023 Goalie spots are already taken (other than maybe a handful of spots that remain open).
  • I am no expert on NCAA eligibility, but I can imagine it is also possible that some current underclass goalies could also redshirt due to lack of playing time or injury, which could also reduce the number of goalies needed for 2024 (or even 2025 & 2026).
  • Depending on how many current senior (2023 or 2024) goalies stick around for the 2023-24 season, it is possible that only 10-15 goalie spots remain for the incoming class of 2024 – which is not very many.
  • If you are a 2024 grad, you might also consider taking a Post Grad year and plan to start in 2025 when it seems there will be a lot more openings.

If you had a different experience or have additional thoughts or questions, feel free to reach out on social media or here to share your thoughts or experience.

Categories
Champs Coach of the day Girls Hockey Women's College Hockey Women's Hockey

Today’s Coach of The Day: Mike Sisti

Today’s Champs Coach of the Day is Mike Sisti, Head Coach with the Mercyhurst women’s ice hockey program. The Lakers are 6-6 so far this season and host a pair of games against Syracuse this weekend.

Create a player profile and connect with Mike on Champs App. https://profile.champs.app/h/mike-sisti

Categories
Champs Coach of the day Girls Hockey Women's College Hockey Women's Hockey

Today’s Coach of The Day: Bethany Brausen

Today’s Champs Coach of the Day is Bethany Brausen – Assistant Coach with the St Thomas women’s ice hockey team. The Tommies host Ohio State for a pair of games this weekend.

Create a player profile and connect with Bethany on Champs App. https://profile.champs.app/h/bethany-brausen/

Categories
Champs Coach of the day Girls Hockey Women's College Hockey Women's Hockey

Today’s Coach of The Day: Kerstin Matthews

Today’s Champs Coach of the Day is Kerstin Matthews – Associate Head Coach with the Boston University women’s ice hockey program. The Terriers won their last game against Merrimack and plays a home-and-home with Providence this coming weekend.

Create a player profile and connect with Kerstin on Champs App. https://profile.champs.app/h/kerstin-matthews/

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