Running Into The Sun

Chances to make it to the NHL for most young American players - few. Does this mean give up trying to make to the big league? No, it just means it won't be easy. Nothing is impossible, but it also is a fact that just wanting something is not enough. You'll have to work for it, and you'll need some help getting to where you want to go. If you don't make it you can at least know that you gave it your best shot. Now there are also a lot of other places to play great hockey. The Canadien Juniors program and The US college teams are some very good options for many players - especially if you have good grades, and/or don't live too far from the Canadien border. There are also a lot of other leaques here in the US and all over the world, and it's a big world. That's why education is so critical in expanding your options. Money is a big factor also. Scholarships can come in handy, but so does a paycheck to help finance your dream. That means get a job. I recomend the college route. Get something out of your time in school like an education. I hate to say this, but if your whole future is riding on your sports career and you get injured bad in a game - or somewhere else -your career and everything riding on it can evaporate in a blink of an eye. Have a backup plan. College, tradeschool, or work experience, always have something you can fall back on. Enjoy the game, and enjoy your life. You only get one. Make the most of it.
You may someday find that the greatest hockey you ever experience is after work some night in your driveway with your kids. That is good stuff. Enjoy every moment, and don't spend too much time and energy worrying about things you can't control. Focus on what you can control, and make the most of it. Never be afraid to succeed - you just might!