Finding the Right Junior Hockey Team Prospects Camp

Disclosure: I wrote this article in February 2025, when I as a 'free agent', and before I joined a team as General Manager.

For aspiring junior hockey players, choosing the right prospects camp can be the key to landing a roster spot. However, with the sheer number of camps available, it’s essential to be strategic in selecting the ones that provide the best opportunity for exposure, development, and ultimately, a legitimate shot at making the team. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating which junior hockey camps are worth your time and money.  

1. Reputation of the Organization and Coaching Staff  

Before committing to a camp, research the team and its coaching staff. Look for organizations with a strong reputation for developing players and moving them to higher levels. A quick search online can reveal insights from past players, parents, and even rival teams. Pay close attention to:  

- The coaching staff’s experience and track record. Have they successfully developed and promoted players?  

- The team’s performance in the league. Are they competitive, or are they a revolving door of players each season?  

- Player advancement history. Do they have a history of moving players to higher junior leagues, college, or even professional levels?  

2. Roster Turnover and Available Spots  

Not all teams are actively looking to add new players. Some camps serve as a revenue stream rather than a legitimate scouting opportunity. Check the team’s current roster and determine:  

- How many players are aging out or moving to higher levels?  

- Which positions need filling? If you’re a goalie and the team already has two signed for next season, your chances are slim.  

- Are there players from last season’s prospects camp who actually made the team?  

Teams with a high turnover rate or significant graduating classes are more likely to offer real roster spots, making their camps a better investment.  

3. Cost vs. Opportunity  

Junior hockey camps can be expensive, with some charging hundreds upon hundreds of dollars in ongoing registration fees, travel costs, and accommodations. To get the most bang for your buck:  

- Look for camps where players are truly being evaluated, rather than just paying for ice time.  

- Avoid “open camps” that allow anyone to attend without prior scouting or invitation—these are often just money-makers for the organization.  

- Consider teams that have pre-draft camps or invite-only tryouts, as these often feature more serious evaluation processes.  

If a camp fee is high, ask the team if there are scouts from other organizations attending. Some camps attract coaches from multiple levels, increasing your exposure.  

4. Pre-Signed Players and Social Media Clues  

Many teams announce signings or commitments on social media before their camps even start. If a team has already signed most of its roster, the camp may not offer many legitimate opportunities. Check their website, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for posts about returning players and new signings. A team that has most of its lineup already locked in may not be worth the investment.  

5. Ask Questions and Get Feedback  

Before attending a camp, don’t hesitate to reach out to the coaching staff. Ask:  

- How many open spots are available?  

- What are they looking for in players at your position?  

- Will there be direct feedback and communication on your performance?  

A reputable team will be transparent about opportunities and provide real evaluations rather than vague “we’ll be in touch” responses.  

Final Thoughts  

The best junior hockey prospects camps are the ones where you have a real chance of making a team. By researching the organization, analyzing roster turnover, evaluating costs, checking for pre-signed players, and asking the right questions, you can maximize your chances of finding the right fit. Don’t waste time and money on camps that don’t offer genuine opportunities—invest in the ones that give you the best shot at advancing your hockey career.

Ed Garinger is a seasoned hockey coach, mentor, and educator with over two decades of experience. A native of the Bruce Peninsula, he played minor and junior hockey before earning his BA and BEd from Nipissing University, where he also competed in varsity volleyball and extramural hockey.

Coaching since age 14, Ed has balanced his teaching career with an extensive coaching and development portfolio, working with players at all levels. He has coached in the Provincial Junior Hockey League, led youth and high school teams, and served as a learning facilitator for the OMHA. His experience includes elite programs like the OHL/OHF U15 and U16 camps, U17 Regional Camps, and Hockey Canada’s Skills Academy.

A Hockey Canada HP1-certified coach, USA Hockey-certified coach, and Chartered Professional Coach (ChPC), Ed is committed to ongoing professional development and continually seeks to expand his knowledge to better serve players and coaches. Now based in Orillia, he enjoys passing on his passion for hockey to the next generation.