Questions to Ask a Hockey Advisor

Experience and fit

The strongest question is not “Who do you know?” but “What experience do you have with players in our situation?”

• Which player ages, levels, positions, and pathways do you work with most often?
• Who will be our day-to-day contact?
• Can you share recent references with similar goals?
• What work do you perform directly, and what is referred to someone else?

Process and communication

Ask for a simple explanation of the first 30, 60, and 90 days. Clarify meeting frequency, response expectations, written deliverables, video review, and how the plan changes after setbacks.

Fees and conflicts

Get the complete commercial arrangement in writing.

• Is the fee hourly, project-based, seasonal, or a retainer?
• Are travel, showcases, video, or third-party services extra?
• Do you receive referral fees or compensation from teams, schools, trainers, agents, or events?
• What is the cancellation and refund policy?

Red flags

Be cautious with guaranteed roster spots, scholarships, contracts, or draft outcomes; pressure to sign immediately; vague deliverables; unwillingness to disclose conflicts; and advice that bypasses current governing-body rules.