Every Ice Time is Your Audition (And Too Many Players Miss This)

Quick lesson for you…

Right now, NHL development camps are happening everywhere. Drafted kids and free agent invites are all trying to prove the same thing: "I belong here."

Here's what's great about an NHL development camp.

These players get it. They know every drill matters. Every shift. Every conversation with a coach. They're not just playing hockey - they're auditioning for their future.

But here's where too many hockey players mess up.

They think opportunity looks like getting called up to the NHL. Or making Team Canada. Or getting drafted in the first round.

Wrong.

Opportunity is every single time you step on the ice. Period.

That development camp? That's opportunity. That junior tryout where you're competing against 30 other goalies? Opportunity. That random Tuesday practice where nobody's watching? Still opportunity.

See, hockey is a constant evaluation. Coaches, scouts, other players - everyone's always judging. Always watching. Always deciding if you're "that guy" or just another player.

For goalies, this is especially true. You can't hide in the crease. Every save is visible. Every goal against is on you. Every reaction to adversity tells a story about who you are.

The best part? This applies whether you're at an NHL camp or trying out for Junior B. The stage changes. The evaluation process doesn't.

Speaking of opportunities - we've got three spots left at our Vancouver camp. July 17-20 at Richmond Olympic Oval. Pasco and I will be there putting you through the exact same mindset these development camp kids are learning right now.

Because here's the thing about opportunity in hockey: often it doesn't knock twice.

You either show up ready to prove you belong, or you watch someone else take your spot.

It’s just how it works…

See you at the rink!

Mike