Getting Noticed and Moving up the Hockey Ranks

The Colorado hockey community is always discussing ways to improve notoriety-to reach a level of youth hockey with the likes of Minnesota or Michigan. In order to do so, the youth players we have must be seen. What better way than a showcase, more specifically the Junior Placement Showcase (JPS)?

"Five years ago I decided to start this as a way to get more Colorado kids noticed by the high end prep, Junior A, Midget AAA and collegiate levels," said director Brad Buetow. "I hadn't seen too many kids playing college and I wondered if it was an exposure issue. The talent is there, so why aren't they playing?"

Buetow knows talent. He's coached at the midget, collegiate and pro levels with over 30 years experience. But you don't have to take ours or his word for it. How about Steve Quailer, a freshman forward who now plays for Northeastern and was drafted in the third round last year in the NHL Entry Draft.  

"Brad Buetow, who was my midget coach, along with participating in JPS were very instrumental in getting me seen and having Northeastern University (Division I) give me a full scholarship," he said when discussing the JPS's importance. "All this led to me being drafted by the Montreal Canadians."

Then there's the shear numbers. Over 200 kids from last year's JPS moved on to play at a higher level, probably because about 50-60 coaches attended and took notice. That's what Buetow does-- he uses his hockey connections to bring in coaches.

"With my experience that's how I can help these kids the most," added Buetow. "The top talent in Colorado deserves to be showcased like the top talent in Minnesota because they seem to be equal."