What's Missing From CIS?

I've gotten some comments from HF readers saying CIS isn't important to them and that it pales in comparison to Junior and NCAA.

I have to admit to never being a big follower of CIS either but I'm wondering why it isn't more popular with everyone else. I personally blame poor media coverage... compared to how College sports are covered in the US. Those who do the covering do good jobs but the exposure seems rather light to me. It would be nice to see CIS games on TV from time to time, even on just regular regional channels. CHL is getting more exposure the past few years, it would be nice to see CIS get it's share too.

Just my thoughts but I'd prefer to hear yours.

I think the problem CIS has is that (as opposed to the CHL and NCAA) You just aren't seeing the future of the NHL playing when you watch. I can think of two CIS/CIAU players (Cory Cross and Steve Rucchin) that made it to the NHL.

Also, I don't think we're seeing top-end players either. Most of these guys ahve allready had a few years in the CHL and weren't good enough to make an AHL roster. (There are a few exceptions to that though, and I'm pretty sure the better players in these leagues could find room in the ECHL or a European League.)

The fact that Athletic Scholarships aren't allowed in Canada is a big factor as well. Of all the College bound players, everyone would choose to go somewhere for free as opposed to somewhere they have to pay to go to. (The only exception to this, would be the CHL players who get 'x' amount of free school in Canada, but they aren't allowed in the NCAA by then anyways.)

There is nothing wrong with CIS hockey. It is just another league that we can all go to and watch good game.

When I go to a junior game I don't say "hey these kids are developing", I say "hey that was a nice save", or "hey that guy got flattened".

If you go to see good hockey. there is nothing wrong with the CIS.