5 More Hurdles Facing Adult Hockey Playing Newbies

The first time you lace up those skates as a grownup, they may feel like medieval instruments of torture. Your ankles wobble like a newborn foal’s. Each time you reach for the puck, you face-plant on the ice. Frustration mounts as fast as new bruises on your ego.

This is normal. Hockey is hard. Give yourself grace as you navigate the steep learning curve. With time and practice, you’ll get there. Just strap on patience like armor.

Expect a bewildering array of rules and strategies. The finer points of icing and off-sides won’t click overnight. But aim to grasp the basics before playing. Study up through books, videos and sage veterans. Their wisdom will spare you many lost pucks and humiliation.

Adult life leaves little time for fun. So fiercely protect your hockey days amid the relentless rush. Pencil in practices and games well in advance, saying no to other commitments if needed. This is your time to recharge. Prioritize it as such.

You will mess up. Probably a lot, if you’re like most newbies. Botched plays and tumbles will inevitably lead to frustration. But don’t dwell on mistakes or compare yourself to pros. Focus instead on the small wins: that first crisp pass you connected, the goal you almost scored. Mark your gradual progress and celebrate each tiny triumph.

Gear matters more than you may realize. Ill-fitting skates and pads hamper performance and safety. So get professionally fitted at a reputable shop. Don’t just guess on sizes or borrow from friends. Your body deserves equipment designed for you.

Finally, embrace the community. Join a recreational team with a fun, supportive vibe. The camaraderie of carpools, post-game beers and group texts reminds you why you love hockey. Bond with teammates over shared struggles and laughs. Before long, you’ll go from rookie to seasoned veteran.

Starting hockey as an adult is daunting but rewarding. Follow this advice and soon you’ll be ruling the rink, bruised ego turned pro.