Joe Shawhan is Michigan Tech's 22nd hockey coach in school history, but he knows how to stand out. Coach Shawhan is the third winningest coach for the Huskies and has taken two of his teams to the NCAA tournament. Here are his best tips for standing out in your recruiting process. 

What is the most important quality you look for in a recruit? 

Talent first. Once we identify the athlete to be a prospect then we dig into the intangibles. Most importantly the character traits of the individual.

What is the best way for a recruit to get on your radar?

A referral from a credible source is always best. Secondly, participate and perform well at events we attend.

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

When should an athlete contact you, what is the best way? (age, grade, time of year, email, phone, or other)

Anytime is good. A simple resume is best. A long letter is the poorest method. If statistics catch our eye from a good league we will research.

What are your expectations for incoming players in the classroom, in the weight room, and on the ice?

We seek driven student athletes. Prospects that excel in the classroom save us money. We seek individuals that strive to be the best they are capable of.

What are the do's and don'ts of being recruited?

If you are old enough, handle your own business. Agents and over active parents are often a turn off. Be honest and sincere. If you're not interested, state that up front. Better sooner than later. Show interest. Nothing is more of a turn-off than a conversation with an athlete that seems totally disinterested.

What is the best advice you can offer a recruit?

Be honest with yourself. Very few athletes are truly scholarship candidates. Strive to be the best you can be. We all have a ceiling. If you reach yours then you can accept when it's over.

What really jumps out to you when reviewing a recruit's highlight tape? 

Skill, hockey sense and compete level. A phone call from a coach is a better starting point than sending a tape. If there is an interest the coach will ask for a tape.

Related: 5 Recruiting Tips for Men's Hockey Players

When do you recommend recruits put together and share their highlight reels? Is it best to make their highlight reel during the offseason, in the middle of season, or after each game?

Each game is way too much. Any film should show what you feel is important. That will tell a lot about your hockey mind.

What advice do you have for recruits who get turned down by their dream schools? What are their options if they don't gain the recruiting attention they desire?

Seek a realistic level for your talent. So many athletes don't have an accurate self awareness of their true abilities.

Image Credit: Michigan Tech University

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* Originally published on November 1, 2022, by 2aDays Staff