Recruiting
The world of minor hockey is constantly evolving, with teams and players competing at a higher level than before. In this highly competitive environment, it takes a lot for a team to stand out and attract the best talent. But one team that has consistently managed to do so is the Vernon Vipers, a junior ice hockey team based in Vernon, British Columbia.
Known for their strong recruitment process, the Vipers have been able to consistently attract top high school players to join their team. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Vipers’ recruitment strategy and what makes them a true powerhouse in the world of minor hockey.
Background on the Vernon Vipers
Before we dive into the specifics of their recruitment strategy, it’s important to understand the history of the Vernon Vipers and how they have established themselves as a top team in the world of junior hockey.
The Vipers were founded in 1991 and are part of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), one of the top junior ice hockey leagues in Canada. They have a long-standing tradition of success, having won four national championships and nine BCHL championship titles.
Their consistent success on the ice has not gone unnoticed, as the Vipers have become a go-to team for high school players looking to take their game to the next level. So how exactly do they manage to attract such top talent year after year? Let’s find out.
Developing Relationships with High Schools
One of the key factors behind the Vipers’ successful recruiting strategy is their emphasis on building relationships with high schools, both locally and nationally. The team has a dedicated staff member whose main responsibility is to establish and maintain connections with high school coaches and athletic directors.
This allows the Vipers to have a presence in the high school hockey community and gives them the opportunity to evaluate potential players at a young age. By building strong relationships with high schools, the Vipers are able to get a better understanding of a player’s character, work ethic, and potential beyond just their on-ice skills.
Cultivating a Winning Culture
Winning is contagious, and the Vipers have created a culture of success that is attractive to high school players looking for a competitive environment to develop their skills.
The team’s track record of consistently winning championships and developing players who have gone on to play at the highest levels of hockey is a big draw for top talent. The Vipers also place a strong emphasis on player development, providing their players with the tools and resources to improve their skills and reach their full potential.
Leveraging Social Media to Showcase Success
Social media has become an important tool for sports teams to showcase their success and reach a wider audience. The Vernon Vipers have utilized this tool effectively, regularly posting updates, game highlights, and player profiles on their social media channels.
This not only allows them to showcase their winning culture and highlight the success of their players, but it also gives potential recruits a glimpse into what it’s like to be a part of the Vipers organization.
Attending Showcases and Tournaments
To get a closer look at potential recruits, the Vipers also participate in showcases and tournaments, which are not only great ways to evaluate talent but also provide an opportunity to showcase their brand to a wider audience.
One of the key tournaments the Vipers attend is the Global Sport Academy Group Showcase, where high school players from across North America come together to compete and catch the attention of college and junior hockey teams. This gives the Vipers a chance to scout potential players and build relationships with them and their families.
Offering Scholarship Opportunities
In addition to their strong recruiting efforts, the Vernon Vipers also offer scholarship opportunities to their players, which is a major draw for high school players looking to continue their education while pursuing their hockey careers.
The team has partnerships with local colleges and universities, providing players with a pathway to further their education while still playing at a high level. This not only helps attract top talent to the team but also provides players with a solid backup plan in case their hockey careers don’t pan out as expected.
To conclude
The Vernon Vipers have built a reputation for being a top destination for high school hockey players looking to play at the next level. Through their strong emphasis on building relationships, showcasing success, and providing opportunities for player development and education, the Vipers have established themselves as a true recruiting powerhouse in the world of minor hockey.
Their successful track record of developing players who have gone on to play at the highest levels of hockey is a testament to their strong recruitment strategy and the winning culture they have cultivated within their organization.
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