How to make a hockey highlight video for college

A good hockey highlight video gets you noticed by college coaches. Here's exactly how to make one, step by step, plus a free tool that does the editing for you.

100% free · no card · no sign-up · ready in about 5 minutes

1. Collect your best footage

Pull clips from your games, ideally filmed from high in the stands at center ice so coaches see your skating and positioning. Ask teammates' parents, your club, or your team's film account for footage.

2. Pick 20 to 30 shifts and plays

Choose plays that show what a coach recruits your position for, not just goals or scores.

• 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.

3. Put your best play first

Many coaches decide within the first 30 seconds. Lead with your single best play, then keep the quality high. Aim for about 3 to 5 minutes in total.

4. Make it obvious which player you are

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.

5. Add your details

Start with a short title card: name, grad year, position, number, and your team, league (AAA, prep, junior), and birth year. Add your GPA if it's strong. Academic schools care a lot.

6. Send it to the right coaches

Email it to programs that fit your level, with your grad year and position in the subject line, and your upcoming games or tournaments in the email.

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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.