You also have to be born in January, February, or March according to the book, "Outliers." (actually statistically correct - the overwhelming majority of NHL players are born in those months.) Because of the cutoff for hockey age in Canada the guys born in those months are bigger and faster than the rest and hence get noticed and get the extra attention and coaching. Validating the point that skill as well as luck and timing play a role - much like becoming a Captain at a major airline. I'm a May baby. No hope for me!