Hockey

More than 180 universities in America offer scholarships to hockey athletes who want to combine hockey with their studies. College hockey is the way to become a better hockey athlete, both physically and mentally, create a network of international friends, and maximize your personal development. In addition, you’ll earn a recognized diploma that will lay the foundation for a successful career.

For many players, college hockey is also a perfect route to become a professional later on.

How does college hockey work?

College hockey is different from the ‘normal’ hockey you’re used to in the Netherlands, both in organization and atmosphere. In America, you don’t play for a club team but for a school or university. In America, this is the highest achievable competition for youth players.

On average, a team consists of about 18 players, and you train together every day. With your team, you compete against other universities in the conference. The ultimate goal? Winning the conference! This qualifies the team for the national tournament, where the best teams in America get to compete!

The biggest difference is the atmosphere during the games. Teammates and fans make a lot of noise, cheer each other on, and often shout encouraging words. So, don’t be surprised if there’s suddenly shouting and thousands of fans and students watching in the middle of the game; the energy level is very high!

College hockey fun & facts

Did you know…

• In college hockey, there are 3 divisions with up to 20 conferences?
• One of the largest college hockey stadiums in the US has almost 20,000 seats?
• If your college hockey team reaches the semifinals, you get to participate in the ‘frozen four’ tournament?
• Approximately 33% of current NHL players were student-athletes?
• There are annual special tournaments where colleges get to play in NHL stadiums?
• Approximately $30 million in scholarships is awarded to college hockey players each year?”

The college hockey system is divided into three different divisions, and within these divisions, there is a significant difference in levels. Therefore, the ice hockey level varies greatly, from the top in Division 1 to club and regional players in lower divisions. Depending on your level and ambitions, we select a division and a university that best suits you.

Slamstox assists both national players and players with a regional background. In America, the hockey level is very high, making it not always easy for Dutch players to obtain a scholarship in America.

Academic requirements:

To play college hockey, you need to have completed high school. For Dutch student-athletes, this means having obtained a HAVO or VWO diploma. Two completed years of an MBO program also meet the requirements.

American universities offer a wide range of programs at various levels. As long as you meet the requirements, we ensure that the perfect match with a university is made for you!

Not sure if you meet the requirements? Feel free to contact us!

Scholarships:

Studying at an American university can cost up to $75,000 per year! An amount that is unrealistic for many Dutch students. That’s why almost all universities with college hockey teams offer the opportunity to obtain both an athletic and academic scholarship.

Slamstox helps you find a scholarship so that your college hockey experience becomes affordable. Some student-athletes receive a “full” scholarship, which allows you to play sports and study in America for four years at no cost. Other student-athletes receive a partial scholarship, which covers a (significant) portion of the tuition costs. The amount of your scholarship is determined based on your sports level, academic level, and your preferences and ambitions.

Read more about scholarships here!

Slamstox guides you and your parents through the entire process of becoming a college hockey player. Additionally, we assist you in finding a suitable scholarship at a university that matches your needs.

We create a complete online profile for you and utilize our extensive network to find a university that aligns with both your athletic level and academic preferences.

Furthermore, we produce your recruitment video, organize clinics, and ensure that hockey coaches know who you are!

Career Opportunities after College Hockey

After four years of playing ice hockey and studying at the university, there are guaranteed unique opportunities for you, both on and off the rink. Some of the best college hockey players pursue professional careers, while others embark on their professional careers.

Did you know that Slamstox can also assist you in finding a job after your studies in America?

Would you like to learn more about Slamstox and what we do? Click here.