The extra years of intense playing experience and improving skill development, plus a year of physical growth and maturity are often very advantageous for developing players who are unsure of their abilities and potentials upon leaving high school. Commitment to Education Because the USHL gears itself toward putting players in college and helping them earn scholarships, the emphasis on education is foremost for all 12 teams. Teams work to make sure players have the academic capability to succeed in the classroom as well as on the ice. For the players who are still in high school, the teams work closely with local school officials developing class schedules to keep players on pace for graduation and college entrance requirements. Players who have finished high school will sometimes take classes at local colleges.
Teams also provide tutors and special counseling sessions to fulfill specific needs of players.
Virtually every USHL club has a team award for the player who provides the most community service every season. And for most teams, that's probably the hardest award decision. It's made difficult by the wide variety of interests players take in their communities. Imagination is the key when it comes to the nature of community involvement. Others get involved in grade schools in other ways - on the playground or giving speeches.