The VICTORIOUS HOCKEY COMPANY’s Biweekly Newsletter: PANIC AT THE SNACK BAR

This time of year, always brings a wave of anxiety among families. I’ve heard from more than a few parents recently—concerned that their son isn’t on a team yet, worried they’re falling behind, and unsure what more he can do. These concerns are understandable, but they’re also heavily influenced by a growing pressure from outside forces that want you to feel like you’re out of time.

Let’s clear something up right now: you are not.

The idea that you have to lock in a team right now is a tactic—one that’s especially prevalent at the 18U level, where teams are under pressure of their own. These organizations know that as the Junior season approaches, they’ll lose some of their best players to higher levels. So, what do they do? They push hard to lock in commitments early, often under the guise of limited spots or “early evaluation” windows.

What they really want is your financial commitment. Because once that’s in place, they’ve covered their bases—even if your son leaves mid-season.

This approach, unfortunately, creates a false sense of urgency. It causes players to second-guess their progress, and it pushes families to make decisions based on fear rather than fit.

But the process at this stage—whether you’re trying to break into Juniors, solidify a spot, or level up within 16U/18U—is different from what many families are used to.

At this level, opportunity isn’t created by chasing every open door. In fact, doing so usually leads to burnout, wasted money, and missed chances. Instead of playing the numbers game—attending every camp, applying to every team—we’re targeting specific opportunities based on timing, fit, and long-term development.

We’re no longer casting a net. We’re spearfishing.

The information we act on is highly specific. We’re in touch with coaches and programs who know what they need, and we propose players when the timing aligns—not just because there’s a tryout or an opening. That may not feel fast, but it’s far more effective than sending out dozens of highlight reels hoping someone bites.

And yes, there’s a lot of noise right now. Tryouts. Camps. Early commitments. You’ll hear about teammates locking things up already or others getting invited to main camps. None of that defines your path. Some of those players won’t make it through camp. Others will leave mid-season. Some have been promised more than will actually be delivered.

We are always working behind the scenes—lining up what’s next, talking to coaches, analyzing needs, and preparing for opportunities. But we refuse to make decisions based on panic or pressure, and we advise you to do the same.

Stay patient. Stay focused. Stay ready. When the right door opens, your job is to be prepared to walk through it. Our job is to make sure it’s the right door.

Mike

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Bowling Green State University has secured the top-ranked recruiting class in college hockey, capitalizing on the NCAA’s new rule allowing CHL players to retain eligibility. This historic shift has enabled programs like BGSU to recruit elite junior talent, immediately transforming their roster potential. The move signals a major shakeup in college hockey dynamics, with mid-major schools gaining competitive ground. Bowling Green’s aggressive approach positions them as a rising force and signals a new era of NCAA hockey parity.

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Canada claimed its second straight IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship title with a 7-0 shutout win over Sweden in Frisco, Texas. Goaltender Jack Ivankovic earned his second tournament shutout, while Brady Martin scored twice and was named to the tournament all-star team alongside Ivankovic, who also earned Best Goaltender honors. Canada went undefeated, outscoring opponents 43-7, with 14 players recording points in the final, showcasing team depth and a dominant offensive performance.

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The U.S. Under-18 Men’s National Team secured a 4-3 overtime win against Slovakia to capture the bronze medal at the 2025 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship in Frisco, Texas. Benjamin Kevan netted the game-winner late in overtime, assisted by Mikey Berchild. Patrick Quinlan made 23 saves in net, while goals from Jacob Kwasnicka and Cole McKinney kept the game close. The U.S. outshot Slovakia 33-26 and earned its 21st all-time medal in tournament history, the most of any nation.

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The Greater Sudbury Cubs are back at the Centennial Cup after clinching the NOJHL championship for a second straight year. Dominating the regular season with a 44-6-2 record and a +138 goal differential, they swept Iroquois Falls and the Soo Thunderbirds before edging Hearst in a thrilling seven-game final. Thirteen returning players bring valuable experience, including top scorer Samuel Assinewai and standout goaltender Noah Beaulne, as the Cubs seek a deeper run at the national championship.

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The London Knights advanced to the J. Ross Robertson Cup Final after sweeping the Kitchener Rangers in the Western Conference Final, maintaining a perfect 12-0 postseason record. The defending OHL champions lead the playoffs in goals per game (5.5) and allow the fewest against (2.3), making them clear title favorites. Recent wins featured standout performances from Sam Dickinson, Kasper Halttunen, and Jesse Nurmi, while Noah Read and Austin Elliot contributed in a dominant, all-around team effort.

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The Idaho Falls Spud Kings captured their first Dineen Cup title with a 2-1 victory over the South Shore Kings. Goals from Owen Beyer and Easton Edwards gave Idaho Falls an early lead, while goaltender Charlie Durkin stopped 30 of 31 shots to secure the win. Despite being outshot in the second and third periods, the Spud Kings held off a late power play to seal the championship. The win also marked the first Dineen Cup for the NCDC’s Mountain Division.

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Players and families, we want to hear from you. If there are any questions, concerns, or if you just want to have a conversation, please feel free to contact us directly. We want to hear from you. Good Luck and Great Hockey!

 

Thank you,

Team VHC