How to Get Into Adult Hockey

Hockey is a winter passion for people living in colder climates or cities with National Hockey League teams. While junior leagues have a great following as youngsters showcase their talents, adults also can meet up on the ice for organized games. Adult leagues, especially those affiliated with USA Hockey, give players an outlet for their competitive instincts while maintaining safe playing conditions with consistent administration, rules and referees.

Things You'll Need

  • Ice skates
  • Hockey sticks
  • Puck
  • Helmet
  • Pads
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sharpen your skating skills. Hockey players must be agile and move aggressively around the ice. Practice skating around tightly placed cones. Make quick stops and redirection moves. Skate with others bumping into you or creating obstacles to get a feel for competition.

    • 2

      Visit a sports store and purchase necessary hockey equipment. You will need at least two sticks, a puck, a helmet and pads. The spare stick is in case you break one during competition, the puck is for individual practice, and the helmet and pads (shoulder and elbow pads and shinguards) are for your safety. As you progress with practice, you may also want to invest in extra pucks, a portable goal and jerseys and pants.

    • 3

      Check the Internet or a local rink for adult hockey leagues. Alternatively, advertise your interest in joining a league on your Facebook page. Many northern cities, big and small, have organized teams for amateurs. Some leagues are grouped according to skill level and may offer "no-check" play, meaning the games are much less physical than the way younger players compete.

    • 4

      Apply to join a league during the next open enrollment. You may need to try out or take lessons so organizers can place you on a team appropriate for your skill level.