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Hockey Agent FAQ
Becoming a Hockey Agent
How do you become a hockey agent?
How do you become a hockey agent?
Most aspiring hockey agents start with structured training, such as SMWW's Hockey Agent Course, which is taught by an NHLPA certified agent. From there, formal NHLPA certification is required to legally negotiate NHL contracts on a player's behalf.
How much does an NHL Agent make?
: The NHL Players Association does not impose an official cap on agent fees, but the market norm is a commission of roughly three percent to five percent of a player's NHL contract value, negotiated between the agent and their client. Endorsement and marketing deals are typically negotiated separately and are not subject to the same percentage norms as playing contracts.
What does an agent actually do for a hockey player?
Like agents in other major sports, hockey agents provide contract negotiation, career advice, marketing and endorsement support, and other career management services. Because these responsibilities require both industry knowledge and hands on training, most successful agents complete formal training, such as SMWW's Hockey Agent course, before representing clients.
At what age should a hockey player get an agent?
Many hockey players begin working with an agent or advisor as early as age fourteen, well before they are old enough to sign a formal playing contract, in order to get guidance as their skills and draft prospects develop. At this age, formal representation is typically handled through an advisor relationship rather than a certified agent contract, similar to the advisor and agent distinction used in baseball.
Do you need to be a lawyer to become an NHL agent?
No. The NHLPA does not require a law degree. It requires a bachelor's degree as part of its certification requirements, and that degree can be earned in any field. Many aspiring agents complete sport specific training, such as SMWW's Hockey Agent Course, to build the practical negotiation and recruiting skills the role requires.
About the SMWW Hockey Agent Course
What does the Hockey Agent course actually cover?
The course covers NHL and NHLPA regulations, contract negotiation, marketing and endorsement deals, and the practical realities of recruiting and retaining clients, all taught by a working, NHLPA certified agent rather than a general sports business instructor.
Who teaches the Hockey Agent course?
Rick Curran, a certified NHLPA agent and partner at the ORR Hockey Group, leads the course. Students get direct weekly access to his insight through SMWW's live interactive Zoom sessions, which is a rare opportunity to learn hockey representation from someone actively working at the NHL level.
Do I need to specialize in North American hockey, or can I represent European players too?
Hockey agent training at SMWW is not limited to the NHL. The course also touches on international markets, since many players move between North American and European leagues over the course of their careers, and understanding both sides gives aspiring agents more flexibility in building a client base.
What happens after I complete the Hockey Agent course?
Graduates are encouraged to continue building their industry network through SMWW's broader Agency program, which gives them ongoing support and connections as they work toward formal NHLPA certification and their first clients.
What if I need one on one assistance?
SMWW staff are available by phone throughout the course for one on one help with coursework, live sessions, or career questions. Call 1 877 SMWW NOW in the United States and Canada, +44 0 871 288 4799 in the United Kingdom, or +1 503 445 7105 from anywhere else. Our offices are in Portland, Oregon, and London, England.
Why Choose SMWW?
Our 8-week Hockey Agent Course is designed to give you a head start in the competitive world of sports agency. You’ll learn from industry experts, gain insider knowledge, and build a network that puts your career on the fast track. Stop waiting for your dream career to happen – make it happen! With SMWW, you can become the agent athletes trust to guide their future.
Enroll today and turn your passion for hockey into a thriving career as a hockey agent!
Do you have more questions?
Call the office and ask! 1-877-SMWW-Now in the US or Canada. In London at +44(0) 871 288 4799 Everywhere else at +1-503-445-7105