Beginner's Guide To Adult Hockey Leagues

So, you're thinking about joining an adult hockey league for beginners? Awesome! It's a fantastic way to get some exercise, meet new people, and, let's be honest, live out those hockey dreams you might have had as a kid. But where do you start? What should you expect? Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started in an adult hockey league.

Gear Up: Essential Equipment

First things first, let's talk about gear. Hockey equipment is crucial not only for performance but, more importantly, for safety. You can't just show up in sneakers and a dream; you need the right equipment to protect yourself on the ice. Think of it as investing in your health and well-being – plus, you'll look super cool!

• Helmet: This is non-negotiable. A good helmet is your first line of defense against head injuries. Make sure it fits snugly and is certified by organizations like HECC or CSA.
• Shoulder Pads: Protect your shoulders, collarbones, and upper chest. Look for pads that offer good mobility without sacrificing protection.
• Elbow Pads: These shield your elbows from impacts and slashes. Get a pair that fits comfortably and doesn't restrict your movement.
• Gloves: Hockey gloves protect your hands and wrists. They should provide a good grip on your stick and allow you to handle the puck effectively.
• Pants: Hockey pants (or breezers) offer padding for your hips, thighs, and tailbone. They're essential for preventing bruises and more serious injuries.
• Shin Guards: These protect your shins from pucks, sticks, and skates. Make sure they fit properly and extend from just below your knee to the top of your skate.
• Skates: Your skates are your connection to the ice. Invest in a good pair that fits well and provides good support. If you're new to skating, consider getting fitted by a professional at a hockey shop.
• Mouthguard: Protects your teeth and reduces the risk of concussion. Most leagues require them, and even if they don't, it's a smart idea to wear one.
• Neck Guard: While not always mandatory, a neck guard can protect your neck from skate blades and other impacts. It's a worthwhile investment for added safety.
• Jock/Jill: Protect your sensitive areas. Enough said.

Don't feel like you need to buy everything brand new. Many sporting goods stores sell used equipment, and you can often find deals online. Just make sure everything fits properly and is in good condition. Renting is also an option when you are first starting out, before you want to commit to purchasing. Properly fitted equipment not only increases safety, but also builds confidence out on the ice. Once you feel safe, you are able to focus more on developing your skills.

Finding the Right League

Alright, you've got your gear. Now, it's time to find a league. Not all adult hockey leagues are created equal, so it's important to find one that's a good fit for your skill level and experience. Here are some tips for finding the right league:

• Look for Beginner or Novice Leagues: These leagues are specifically designed for players who are new to the game or have limited experience. They typically focus on skill development and having fun rather than cutthroat competition.
• Check the League's Skill Levels: Most leagues have different divisions based on skill level, ranging from beginner to advanced. Make sure you're signing up for a division that's appropriate for your abilities. It is important to be honest with yourself about your level. It is better to be in the lower level, and be one of the better players. This builds confidence, and helps you develop your skills quicker.
• Consider Co-ed Leagues: Co-ed leagues can be a great option for beginners, as they often have a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere. Plus, it's a chance to meet people of all genders who share your love of hockey.
• Ask Around: Talk to friends, coworkers, or other people you know who play hockey. They may be able to recommend a good league or team in your area. Online forums are a great place to start as well.
• Visit a Game: Before you commit to joining a league, go watch a game to get a sense of the level of play and the atmosphere. This can help you determine if it's a good fit for you.

It's also a good idea to inquire about the league's rules and regulations. Some leagues have specific rules in place to promote safety and prevent injuries, such as no-check or limited-contact policies. Understanding these rules will help you stay safe and avoid penalties.

Essential Skills to Develop

So you have the gear and you have the league, now you need to have the skills to be able to keep up and enjoy the experience. Here are a few skills to work on:

• Skating: This is the most fundamental skill in hockey. Work on your balance, stride, and agility. Practice skating forward, backward, and sideways. If you're new to skating, consider taking lessons from a qualified instructor. Without the skating skills, it is very difficult to enjoy the game.
• Puck Handling: Learn how to control the puck with your stick. Practice stickhandling, passing, and shooting. Start with basic drills and gradually increase the difficulty as you improve.
• Passing: Passing is a key part of team play. Work on making accurate passes to your teammates. Practice passing on the forehand and backhand.
• Shooting: Learn how to shoot the puck with power and accuracy. Practice different types of shots, such as wrist shots, slap shots, and backhand shots.
• Game Sense: Develop your understanding of the game. Learn about positioning, strategy, and teamwork. Watch professional hockey games and pay attention to how the players move and interact on the ice. Learning where to be on the ice, when to be there, and who to pass to are important skills that will help you greatly.

Don't be afraid to ask for help from more experienced players. Most hockey players are happy to share their knowledge and offer advice. Attend stick-and-puck sessions or open skates to get extra practice time. The more you practice, the faster you'll improve.

What to Expect on Game Day

Okay, the big day is here! You've got your gear, you've practiced your skills, and you're ready to hit the ice. Here's what you can expect on game day:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the rink, get dressed, and warm up. Rushing around at the last minute will only add to your stress.
• Warm Up: Before the game, take some time to warm up your muscles and get your heart rate up. Skate around the ice, stretch, and do some light exercises.
• Listen to Your Coach: Pay attention to your coach's instructions and follow the game plan. They're there to help you succeed.
• Communicate with Your Teammates: Talk to your teammates on the ice. Call for passes, let them know where you are, and offer encouragement. Playing together and working together is very important, and communication is key.
• Have Fun: Remember, you're here to have fun! Don't take yourself too seriously and enjoy the experience. Win or lose, adult hockey is a great way to stay active, socialize, and challenge yourself.
• Post-Game: After the game it is custom to shake the hands of your opponents, and then join your teammates in the locker room and talk about the game. This helps with camaraderie, and the social aspect of the game.

Hockey Lingo

• Barn: Hockey rink
• Biscuit: Puck
• Bucket: Helmet
• Chirp: Trash talk
• Clapper: Slap shot
• Dangle: Fancy stickhandling move
• Gino: Goal
• Mitts: Hockey gloves
• Pylon: A player who stands still and is easily skated around
• Sieve: Goalie who lets in a lot of goals
• Top Shelf: The upper part of the net

Don't be discouraged if you make mistakes or struggle at first. Everyone starts somewhere. The key is to keep practicing, stay positive, and have fun. Adult hockey is a challenging but rewarding sport, and with dedication and perseverance, you'll be skating like a pro in no time.

So, are you ready to lace up your skates and join an adult hockey league? I hope this guide has given you the information and inspiration you need to get started. See you on the ice!