NetSnapHockey recruiting video tips: what college coaches want
College hockey coaches watch a lot of recruiting videos. These tips help yours get watched to the end, and get a reply.
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What coaches look for, by position
- Forward: skating speed, puck protection, forechecking, finishing, and playmaking.
- Defense: gap control, breakout passes, shot blocking, and defending the rush.
- Goalie: positioning, rebound control, tracking pucks through traffic. Goalies should make their own reel.
Mistakes that get reels skipped
- The coach can't find you. Hockey is fast, players wear helmets, and numbers are hard to read on most game film. Marking yourself before each play is the difference between a coach watching you and a coach giving up.
- Too long. Stick to about 3 to 5 minutes. More isn't better.
- Best play buried. Lead with your best clip.
- Only the highlights a fan would like. Coaches also want the unglamorous plays that show your position skills.
- Loud music over everything. Fine for social media, but keep the coach version simple.
- No details. Grad year, position, number, team and contact info belong on the reel.
Timing
NCAA rules limit when college coaches can contact recruits, and the dates differ by sport and division. Coaches can still watch your video before they're allowed to reply, so send it early and follow up with updates. Check the official NCAA recruiting calendar for your sport.
Questions
- Is NetSnap really free?
- Yes. You upload your clips, tap your player, and download the finished reel at no cost. No card and no sign-up needed.
- How long should a recruiting reel be?
- Usually 2 to 5 minutes. Coaches often decide in the first 30 seconds, so put your best plays first.
- What footage works?
- Phone videos and game film (MP4 or MOV) work. Clips filmed from high up and from the side give the clearest reel.
- How do coaches know which player I am?
- You tap yourself in each clip, and NetSnap puts a spotlight marker on you at exactly that moment, so a coach knows who to watch before the play starts.
- How long does it take?
- Your reel is usually ready about five minutes after your clips finish uploading.