ECHL, CHL, IHL etc.

Question
Hello!

I am currently 23 years old and have been playing ice hockey since I was
eight.  I have not played juniors but I have worked extremely hard on and off
ice since I began and have developed extremely good all around skills as a
offensive and defensive forward.  I know you have to be drafted or invited to
play in the NHL or AHL, but I have heard from other experts and coaches that  
I could have a chance with an ECHL, CHL, or IHL team if I contact the GM or
head coach etc.  There is a IHL and ECHL team very near my home and I have
gone to both their websites and couldn't find contact info for the coaches or
GMs..only tickets and rink times etc.  I was wondering what you're advice
would be to have a chance of making any of these teamsleagues whether it's
related to what I think will work or totally differen't.  Once again, I'm positive
I have the skills as a high end junior player, its just I didn't play on a team.  
Thank you so much,

Tim  

Answer
HI Tim...

Well it's not easy to just step in "above" the many many players who have "followed" the herd - so to speak!  Tho it is NOT impossible either.   The key is persistence, ingenuity and creativity.   Start writing polite and respectful letters, sending resume and video if you can.  Follow up with emails, phone calls, faxes and even in person "cold calls".   All these things will show how "bad" you want something and "most" human beings will respond to that.

Barring that keep playing at the highest level you can find!  Be it in senior men's leagues or national tournaments...  get out there, skate, get noticed.   And don't be afraid to promote yourself in the humblest but most confident way possible...  YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU WILL MEET WHO KNOWS SOMEBODY WHO KNOWS SOMEBODY!!!  If you are good, coachable, likeable, have faith and believe you can play with class, personality and overall good work ethics - you never know what door can open...

If you are waiting at home for a phone call - it won't happen...  you have got to "GET OUT" there and GET NOTICED!  That is how it works!

GOOD LUCK!

Martial