New at Hockey

I'm interested in learning to play hockey. I'm 38 can barely skate but have all ways wanted to play since I was a kid but never had the money to get all the equipment and league fees etc. I've skated in the past but it's been about 15 years ago. I know I have to learn to skate first which I plan on doing this winter and I'm thinking of getting in a league next season. It appreciate any advice as far as are their beginner leagues for guys my age just starting out? I've heard of beer leagues but didn't find much info. Is it worth getting lessons or just put some ice time in and learn on my own. Thanks in advance for any info about this!

 

You might want to look into going to the local rec center skating rink, they usually have drop in hockey at lunch or later in the day. A casual way to get into playing and all skill levels show up.

 

Thanks, after I learn to skate better I'll definitely give it a try.

 

Its a great time, no matter the skill level.

 

I was just worried about being the old guy and being new and not being able to keep up. We played floor hockey in School and I loved it.

 

You don't have to worry about that at drop in, people are friendly and all skill levels will be there, main thing is to have fun and watch whats going on, even if your not skating fast you can still get involved in the play.

 

Is roller hockey a thing still? That's something you can do off the ice. I did that when I was in High School, help with balance and stick work.

 

ice time ice time ice time, most rinks have at least one "sticks and pucks" a day if not more. if you can sake a few times a week you should be golden but if you feel you need it lessons are certainly helpful, hell I play AA travel hockey and still take lessons with a skating coach. but like i said just get out there and get some sessions under your belt. As for beer league it depends on where your at, around me they have full leagues with prize money and everything but some places you just show up and two "captains" pick teams. ether way everyone is usually very chill about it and there just out there to have fun.

 

I have played in a couple different Men's leagues. The first was in South Dakota when I was in college, and I skate in one currently in Wisconsin. Both are pick up leagues, So you can pay for the year or pay by the night, teams are divided base on light and Dark and we play from there. There are always the guys that show up that are still in really great shape and walk around everyone, there are also a guys that are not strong skaters. From what I have seen if it is a just for fun type of league it does not matter your skill level. Everyone tries to get all players involved so everyone has a good time. I would say lace up those skates and get out on the ice just for some open skate or open hockey. If you can find a fun pick up league get out there and skate. You should be able to pick up some good pointers from others in men's league, so I don't think specific lessons would be required.

 

learn to skate & find your local beer league local or play pick up games..

 

I miss playing hockey. Played a ton back when i was younger. I have only skated 1 time in the 14 yrs since graduating high school.

 

I'm about to move from North Texas where rinks are few and far between back to Norfolk and wondering how common rec league rinks are? I'd like to play but the 45 minute drive to the nearest rink takes all the fun out of it. The only hockey I remember encountering the last time I was in the 757 was the Admirals.