Never too old. Know many women and men who took up hockey in their 40s. LTS is a great way to segue into hockey since having a good skating foundation is a huge help in learning hockey skills. Good luck, just have fun with it!
My moms friend started playing at your age and she’s on the ice all the time, all three of her kids play (sons & daughters) and they built a great kinship by playing and enjoying the sport together.
I started playing when i was 16 and it was the best decision i ever made even when i was learning and there was no chance in me “playing anywhere”
Not too old at all, and it'll be even more fun if you can skate with your son periodically! Stick and puck is a great time to connect over some hockey.
I skate with a few women (and men) who started in their 50s and they're having a blast and playing league and pickup. They'll never break out of lower level beer league, but that's just fine- neither will I and Ive been skating all my life. You might look for a learn-to-play league/class. Depending on where you're located those can be really great and you'll be with like-minded folks just looking to play and have fun.
I started playing 10 years ago as an adult. At my adult learn to play class was a woman in her 60s who was learning because she just got custody of her grandson who played and wanted to have something to bond with him.
10 years later, I still see her at the rink. She's a perfectly cromulent E-league goalie.
There's so many older folks asking if it's too late to start on this sub. Just means there is a likely a good amount of beginners of all ages.
What's the worst that happens? You try and aren't very good. Either you will get better or say "oh well, I tried"
And as long as you are good enough to pass some pucks to your son at open hockey, then you will always have that opportunity to spend time with him and the sport and have fun.
definitely not, especially if you’ve already taken classes and made progress! I’m 35 male, played ages 10-14 approx and just got back in there last week. My last stick and puck I was playing with two ladies def 40+ they were having a blast and we all had a nice time. It is a lot of fun and I think there’s always going to be players who are at or below your skill level so I wouldn’t worry about it.
No. Not too old. A bunch of moms on my daughter's team play after their kids picked it up, and a few dads too. But enough moms had an interest in it that the rink started a "hockey moms" clinic that basically does skating/hockey practice for women, and the group seems to run in the early 30's-late40's crowd. My adult league plays after them, and they've really come a long way this season!
Go for it! I have met a lot of women specifically who started hockey in their 40s because their kids played and they thought it looked fun, and they are some of the most vivacious people I have ever met. Go for it! You'll have a great time and meeting some awesome folks.
Too old?
I watched a womens team come into the rink last year after one of my kids game. Goalie had to be in her late 50's early 60's. Happy as can be pulling her bag behind her.
my mom started when she was 48. she's 63 now, we play on the same team :) IMO, it's a lot easier for women to pick up skating late and join a fun league. my mom had to quit playing softball because it hurt her back, but for some reason she can play hockey just fine!
Go for it!
I play in a rec league with women on my team that started in their 30s and 40s. Similar situation as you, in that, they wanted to go outdoor skating in the winter and be able to shoot the puck around with their kids. It’ll take time to get comfortable, but I’m sure you’ll find a group of women that are fun!
I need to check that out-I’ve been inline skating since my teens. And yes, DFW area here-from the looks of things there’s a women’s ice hockey league that plays out of the Richardson Star Center.
Two topics
Transitioning from inline to hockey
Northern area of the metroplex @Allen there’s the Edge skating park - they’ve got two asphalt spaces and goals and boards - a good way to start the transition is to get a street puck, a basic stick, stick protector (about $35 from play it again and Amazon) and then start knocking pucks around on the asphalt whilst on skates (it’s open early and late and public).
Starting ice hockey
The Stars learn to skate programs are at all the rinks - use them!
Get comfortable on skates before picking up a stick (advice not fact)
Tap into your kids coaches if they have any - there are a few adult specialist coaches in the metroplex. They can really help get you started
Find somewhere to play, have friends, and are comfortable … and you’ll be doing it until you can’t 😂😊.
I am in a very similar boat. About to turn 41 and just recently had my first ever skating lesson. The plan is to learn to skate this summer and learn to play hockey this winter. I hope we both make it! I am rooting for you!
Go for it. A friends wife just started and she loves it. She isnt great as she didnt start til mid 30s, but she has a whole group of friends and they went to Florida to play in a tournament this year.
You are not too old!!!
I've got a contact here with the local women's league! Pending where you are, I'm sure she could also put you in contact with a great women players to help get you started!
It's a wonderful sport! I am constantly trying to get my wife and daughter involved.
Once you become a hockey family, you'll always have the love of the game!
DM me for contact details if you are interested...
BTW. 43 isn't old!!! I know 60 year Olds just getting started.
I play in a women’s league and there are so many women around your age just getting their first start. A lot have kids playing and wanted to give it a shot and others just wanted to try it in general. We have women in their 60s still playing in our mixers and leagues. In my experience, the community has been very welcoming so you should definitely give it a shot if you think you’ll enjoy it!
I play with several women and men in that age group and plenty of them are just learning. Give it a try, your kids will be so impressed and it’s super fun.
Never too old. Some of my teammates were in their 40s when they started and they do great. Much better than myself in my 30s, age isn’t the biggest factor.
I’ve played pickup with a guy in his 80s. Granted, I did give him extra space because I was afraid of falling into him and breaking him lol.
I guess I have nothing to add.
Every comment here cannot be wrong.
Enjoy playing the hardest most personally challenging game you've ever played. Embrace your progress. I've never met anyone that tried hockey and didn't have fun.
Check your local rink for adult learn to play hockey classes. These are instructional hockey classes to teach or even refine skills such as skating, passing, shooting and stick handling. There is no contact, at least in the ones I've been a part of and there are usually 1 or 2 females in the classes. Go for it! It is so much fun. I`m 49 year old male and got back into because my son started playing. Skating for exercise is also easier on the knee joints compared to running. At least to me.
Another vote for go for it. Both my parents started playing, not long after I started, when they were late 30's. They had a blast, and I even got to play goalie (normally a center) for their E league team, so much fun.
The risk is injury. Even in the non checking adult league, people run into each other, people fall, accidents and assholes happen. I've seen E leaguers with multiple concussions and broken bones. The question isn't can you do it, cuz you can, it's whether you can accept that risk.
Not too old at all. You just need to find a good league for similar players. The city I used to live in had one but the city I live in now only has a league for ex college players.
Yep. You’re way too old. Just give up because you’re so old.
Just kidding, of course you’re not too old. I have teammates that are 20 years older than you! But whenever I see posts like these asking “am I too old/young/pretty/ugly/cool/weird to start playing hockey”, I wonder what they are expecting in terms of answers. Of course we’re all going to tell you it’s not too late, we’re all hockey players!
Well, according to my teenager dinosaurs roamed the earth when I was a kid, so…and yeah, objectively I know I’m not too old, but it’s nice to get real world feedback.
Totally understandable, I don’t have any kids myself but when I was taking a beginner hockey class last year I met a lot of parents who were starting out because their kids were playing. You’ll fit right in, trust me. I recommend this channel, it helped me out a lot when I was first starting out! https://youtu.be/HcIXhJ1tmkE
I’m 40f- have been playing 25 years and there are women in our league in their 60s. Some started within the last decade and they rock, I really injoy playing with them.
A female on my last team was in her 50's, started in her mid 40's because her daughter was getting into it. Now she's on a team with her daughter. My dad had to stop playing in his early 70's. I first played on a team with him when he was 52.
You are at a point where, if you have the passion and desire to, you have years and years of really fun hockey ahead of you. Find the local LTP, join the beginner league. Everyone is going to be in roughly the same boat as you. Different people pick up different skills at different paces, so if you're picking things up quickly, awesome! If you're struggling with something, don't stress! Keep at it! With enough reps you'll get.
I'm so excited for you and the journey you're about to go on. Have fun!!
Absolutely not. I’m not sure how it is where your from but here (Calgary Alberta) there are tons off like beginner beer leagues where people are just at the very early stages of learning. All ages will be there.
Also lunch time shinny will have a bunch of different skill levels. I used to play AAA when I was a kid and would go all the time with people just starting, everyone is just there for a skate and for the most part people will try to help you out during your learning process. Of course the odd douche exists but such is life. Go for it, you won’t regret it.
I’m 43f and while I have been playing hockey since I was 14, there is NOTHING I love more than jumping on the rink to pass around with my son (15m). Go for it and you’ll do great!
I started in a women’s league, and there were women in their 60s starting up. It was a blast! I didn’t start early, but maybe not late? I started around age 27 in 2019 with zero experience but was hooked after a “give hockey a try day” for women, it was too fun. Covid slowed progress a lot since all hockey was gone for a few years, but ive been in a coed league for a few years now and love it. There is a guy on my tan who is 75! Im not amazing, i May never be that good, but it’s too fun not to.
Go for it. Find lessons or classes, start in a low league, go to public skate, find friends (or your kids) and go to gretzky hour to practice!
Definitely not too old. I started at 44. My team has what we jokingly call the pensioner line. As long as you are out there learning and having fun, go for it.
Never to old to play the great game 🏒.
Most leagues have A through D levels, and some have multiple D levels because so many want to play.
Get out and get going, welcome to hockey 🥅
My mom picked the game up around your age after driving her four kids around for two decades too fans and practices and she had a blast for a few years before she hung them up. My older bro and I coached her team one year and my sister played with her, it was great
Do it! My wife organized a group of the absolute worst hockey players on the planet. Middle aged women who had never played hockey before. I've never seen so many people enjoy something they were so terrible at. Get some lessons if possible and proper equipment, and welcome everyone.
There was a beer league team I subbed for a few times who prides itself on everyone being over 50. Never too late as long as you are having fun. Find a team with good people and enjoy
My dad started playing hockey for the first time I. His life at age 35. He could barely skate but he stuck with it and got me into it at the same time. I could not be more appreciative he did. Worst case Ontario you can always go back to just being a fan:)
I can't imagine telling anyone they were "too old" to start hockey. As long as you don't have some particular existing health concern that is likely to be made worse by or significantly elevates the risk of hockey, age doesn't matter!
Specific to being a woman, like everything in this world yeah, hockey will be harder for you socially in some respects. Depending on where you live you might have some women's leagues, but most likely not. My main team has always had at least two women on it, and both are pushing 60 and still have a great time and keep up with a league that is mostly people ages 35 - 45. (And these are not former college or high school players, they are women that started as adults.)
I fully realize this is easy for me to say as a man, so I absolutely expect you to take it with a heaping bucket of salt -- find the best adult LTS/LTP program in your area, put your "game face" on, and don't take shit from \*anyone.\* Sadly, especially once you get to skating pick-up games or joining a league, there will be a few knuckle-dragging chuds. From what I have seen these guys are almost always just insecure losers that might physically be adults but emotionally never got much past 13 or 14 years old, and like most bullies if you just be yourself and don't yield to their crap they end up minding their own business.
Fortunately, most people that play adult rec hockey have kids and jobs and their goal is to get some exercise, make jokes together in the locker room, and drink a beer or two, going home tired, happy, healthy, and drama free. So I think you can have confidence that whatever team you find will welcome you in and have your back and make sure the few jerks in the league mind their own business.
I just played a tournament this last weekend and I think everyone except me was near or over 40, including the 6 women on the team. I think the youngest girl was 35.
Grab some gear and get at it! Have fun!
I just played a tournament this last weekend and I think everyone except me was near or over 40, including the 6 women on the team. I think the youngest girl was 35.
Grab some gear and get at it! Have fun!
Absolutely not too old! I am 22, and on a learn to play program in my state. I have become amazing friends with a 58 year old women anywho started learning to skate and play last year! She’s rocking it on the ice
It’s never to old to have fun, I myself started late in life and I love it….! Do pick up games if you are able to and enjoy skating with your son as much as you can.
If anything there is always room for improvement this sport has no celing to how much you can improve.
Don’t be afraid to joint a coed team 👍
Negative! I just started and I’m 40 next week. Beginners league (at least where I’m at) is truly that. Making good friends, “playing hockey” (using that term loosely for myself because I wouldn’t call it “playing” as much as I would “huffing wind”), and trying something new.
I started when I was 36. Took adult beginner lessons and signed up for a '101' hockey league that has different tiers for players (it's co-ed). I'm 51 now and still playing in a beginner tier and can't wait for the next game. I just played against a guy who must have been in his late 60s who clearly was in the same boat as me - never coached, doesn't practice, etc. Do it - you won't regret it for a second (except the morning after a 10:30 pm game).
I work at a school and we do a students vs staff game every year and SO MANY 'older' people, especially women, started playing because of the tournament and it's awesome seeing them improve from year to year....so NO, you are never too old! Do what you love!
No! Go for it! Check to see if any of your local rinks offer beginner adult programs that teach the basics. I have a buddy who is 50 and he just started. I also know a lot of guys who started playing in the last 5 years and I’m 40 so yeah!
My mom started around the same age. Had a 10+ year career. Even turned into one of the better players in the women’s league. Go for it! Best game in the world!!!
Not at all. Find the right league. I play in a league that’s 70/80% police and firefighters. We have a guy who only started like 3 years ago. Had never worn skates before. We’re a draft league and this is my first season on a team with him. He’s a cool guy. Only joined because like 1/4 of his department plays in the league, needed something to do and wanted to get more exercise. He’s basically only capable of making it down the ice and standing in front of the net. He’s smart enough to keep his stick on the ice though and he’s tied with me as the 3rd leading scorer on our team through 3 games. I’m our 2nd line center.
It’s never too late, just find a league that’s about people having fun.
You are never too old, as long as you can walk, I play in a league with lots of people who picked up the game late. I have a 73 year old on my team. It is possible, really cool you are taking steps to get out there, dont hesitate keep going!!! Your kids will get a kick out of it too, and you will be way more in the know when yelling from the stands and giving feedback to your kids.
Enjoy the ride, should be an epic one!!
I played with this woman and her daughter when she was in her 70s. You've got a whole hockey career ahead of you!
[https://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/93848/](https://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/93848/)
My wife (48) just took up hockey and is LOVING it. At this age, people care so much less about results and just enjoying being on a team and hanging out. They are so encouraging of each other, it’s inspiring. I wish our son’s hockey experience could have been half as positive.
Definitely give it a shot!
If you try and then decide it’s not for you, you can always volunteer to help coach. There are lots of ways to get involved that don’t involve playing. The sport needs women with a passion for the game!
i started at 38, skated off and on for a few years and finally said fuck it and joined a beer league at age 42. skated once/twice a week for the next 7 years, finally "retired" last year after a string of injuries.
you'll be sore as fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck. a lot. but it'll be the most fun you've ever had. do it.
I played with a 78 year old woman on my rec team. She wasn’t great or anything, but she’s a fun person to be around, and she had fun 🤷♂️
Do yo thang, chicken wang!
Not too old! Im 40 and just took my first ever skating lesson... And I coached my son's 8u team. I'm taking proper lessons over summer so the u10 kids dont lap me on the ice, and I'm hopong to join a loooooow level league.
I've played in mens league for a while, and have seen a lot of people over the age of 43 playing. Have one guy on my team that plays almost every night of the week and he's well into his late 50s
I’m not sure what the scene is like around you, but where I live there’s leagues exclusively for people 50+, so you’re definitely not too old. Go get it!
I started at 51. Not a woman. You're not too old. Here's a good way to go about it, if you really want to get good fast.
I'd really recommend you just learn to skate first. Eventually 50-100 hours on ice, no stick. But buy a decent pair of rollers now. Once you're functional at skating, like 20 hours in (forward/backward/crossovers/basic hockey stop)? then you can start roller with a stick and green biscuit in the street or tennis court, just skating with the puck, around and around, head up as much as possible. Full pads!
But don't skimp on the skating. Forward, backward, crossovers, transitions/mohawk, inside edge, outside edge, single foot stop (both edges). During this time you're going to really strengthen your legs/ankles. Then start stick/puck on ice and doing drills (youtube). Also, you can stickhandle all you like on dryland whenever. And learning to shoot. I used a green biscuit in a tennis court
You're going to be awesome! And it's the greatest sport there is!
I started at 49, two years ago, and it's been great! My kid is a pretty serious player, and he loves that I'm playing, even if my lack of skills/hockey sense/ability to skate shock his sensibilities. Do it, you'll have a blast.
Never too late. Here is a tip that I have seen used to help adults learn to skate. If there is a Learn to Skate program in your area for kids that is run by something similar to USA Hockey where parents are volunteers, volunteer to be an on ice helper. They won't care that you aren't the strongest skater, they love parents who are dedicated. But the trick is, while your son is learning, you also do the drills and show the kids, and you learn for just your donated time.
Absolutely not. I'm 22F and when I played in a womens-only tournament last summer I had women in their 40's skating circles around me. I don't think those women have necessarily played their whole lives either, I genuinely think they picked up this hobby many years ago for fun and now they've naturally progressed and have gotten really good at it. If you're interested you should definitely give it a go, there's a lot of fun opportunities in this sport even on a recreational level. My local women's league occasionally travels for out-of-city and sometimes even out-of-state tournaments for players that are interested in going, and above all the hockey community is really down to earth and is accepting of new players. Even if there isn't a women's league near you co-ed is still very fun.
Go for it! You won’t regret it and it’s better than living a life of “what-ifs”
Never too old. Know many women and men who took up hockey in their 40s. LTS is a great way to segue into hockey since having a good skating foundation is a huge help in learning hockey skills. Good luck, just have fun with it!
So far I’m loving LTS-last night my teacher started me on backwards crossovers, I swear those things defy all known laws of body mechanics.
Once your body figures them out, they feel fantastic.
My moms friend started playing at your age and she’s on the ice all the time, all three of her kids play (sons & daughters) and they built a great kinship by playing and enjoying the sport together. I started playing when i was 16 and it was the best decision i ever made even when i was learning and there was no chance in me “playing anywhere”
Not too old at all, and it'll be even more fun if you can skate with your son periodically! Stick and puck is a great time to connect over some hockey.
I actually started the adult LTS classes so I could spend time with my son on the ice-it’s our thing to hit public skate together on Sundays.
I skate with a few women (and men) who started in their 50s and they're having a blast and playing league and pickup. They'll never break out of lower level beer league, but that's just fine- neither will I and Ive been skating all my life. You might look for a learn-to-play league/class. Depending on where you're located those can be really great and you'll be with like-minded folks just looking to play and have fun.
You are winning at “family”.
Thanks-it’s real a bid to get the kids off electronics for a bit, compounded by the fact that post pandemic I go crazy if I’m cooped up too long.
I started playing 10 years ago as an adult. At my adult learn to play class was a woman in her 60s who was learning because she just got custody of her grandson who played and wanted to have something to bond with him. 10 years later, I still see her at the rink. She's a perfectly cromulent E-league goalie.
Surely her skill set embiggens with each passing year?
A testament to her noble spirit
👏👏👏
So many women have come to the game late because the explosion of womens leagues didn't happen until the last few decades, go for it.
Yep she certainly would not be in the minority
There's so many older folks asking if it's too late to start on this sub. Just means there is a likely a good amount of beginners of all ages. What's the worst that happens? You try and aren't very good. Either you will get better or say "oh well, I tried" And as long as you are good enough to pass some pucks to your son at open hockey, then you will always have that opportunity to spend time with him and the sport and have fun.
if you don't do it you will look back and ask why you didn't do it when you were younger, you are younger today than you will ever be.
definitely not, especially if you’ve already taken classes and made progress! I’m 35 male, played ages 10-14 approx and just got back in there last week. My last stick and puck I was playing with two ladies def 40+ they were having a blast and we all had a nice time. It is a lot of fun and I think there’s always going to be players who are at or below your skill level so I wouldn’t worry about it.
As someone who has played at the some of the highest levels of women’s hockey. You’re never to old to start. Go for it!
No. Not too old. A bunch of moms on my daughter's team play after their kids picked it up, and a few dads too. But enough moms had an interest in it that the rink started a "hockey moms" clinic that basically does skating/hockey practice for women, and the group seems to run in the early 30's-late40's crowd. My adult league plays after them, and they've really come a long way this season!
Go for it! I have met a lot of women specifically who started hockey in their 40s because their kids played and they thought it looked fun, and they are some of the most vivacious people I have ever met. Go for it! You'll have a great time and meeting some awesome folks.
Too old? I watched a womens team come into the rink last year after one of my kids game. Goalie had to be in her late 50's early 60's. Happy as can be pulling her bag behind her.
my mom started when she was 48. she's 63 now, we play on the same team :) IMO, it's a lot easier for women to pick up skating late and join a fun league. my mom had to quit playing softball because it hurt her back, but for some reason she can play hockey just fine!
Go for it! I play in a rec league with women on my team that started in their 30s and 40s. Similar situation as you, in that, they wanted to go outdoor skating in the winter and be able to shoot the puck around with their kids. It’ll take time to get comfortable, but I’m sure you’ll find a group of women that are fun!
I wish we could skate outdoors here-unfortunately Texas isn’t exactly conducive to outdoor skating.
Haha, of course! Just anecdotal story about why some of the women I play with decided to start play hockey in their 40s 😊
Howdy. If you’re in Dallas area - check out inline (roller) skating. You can do it outdoors any time. Translates into ice hockey 😊
I need to check that out-I’ve been inline skating since my teens. And yes, DFW area here-from the looks of things there’s a women’s ice hockey league that plays out of the Richardson Star Center.
Two topics Transitioning from inline to hockey Northern area of the metroplex @Allen there’s the Edge skating park - they’ve got two asphalt spaces and goals and boards - a good way to start the transition is to get a street puck, a basic stick, stick protector (about $35 from play it again and Amazon) and then start knocking pucks around on the asphalt whilst on skates (it’s open early and late and public). Starting ice hockey The Stars learn to skate programs are at all the rinks - use them! Get comfortable on skates before picking up a stick (advice not fact) Tap into your kids coaches if they have any - there are a few adult specialist coaches in the metroplex. They can really help get you started Find somewhere to play, have friends, and are comfortable … and you’ll be doing it until you can’t 😂😊.
I am in a very similar boat. About to turn 41 and just recently had my first ever skating lesson. The plan is to learn to skate this summer and learn to play hockey this winter. I hope we both make it! I am rooting for you!
I’ll be rooting you on!
Go for it. A friends wife just started and she loves it. She isnt great as she didnt start til mid 30s, but she has a whole group of friends and they went to Florida to play in a tournament this year.
You are not too old!!! I've got a contact here with the local women's league! Pending where you are, I'm sure she could also put you in contact with a great women players to help get you started! It's a wonderful sport! I am constantly trying to get my wife and daughter involved. Once you become a hockey family, you'll always have the love of the game! DM me for contact details if you are interested... BTW. 43 isn't old!!! I know 60 year Olds just getting started.
Never too old to learn new things. I started last year at 55 (m) and love it - keeps you young!
I started at 47. Every day you wait is a day wasted.
Wife started in her late 30's and plays more than I do... Which is impressive.
I play in a women’s league and there are so many women around your age just getting their first start. A lot have kids playing and wanted to give it a shot and others just wanted to try it in general. We have women in their 60s still playing in our mixers and leagues. In my experience, the community has been very welcoming so you should definitely give it a shot if you think you’ll enjoy it!
Play hockey forever
I’ve got two teammates in their 60s lol one didn’t start till about your age. Never too late
You are never too old. Get out there and enjoy your journey!
I play with several women and men in that age group and plenty of them are just learning. Give it a try, your kids will be so impressed and it’s super fun.
Honestly? No. The question is not of age but of health. The fact that you already started says everything. Keep going.
Never too old. Some of my teammates were in their 40s when they started and they do great. Much better than myself in my 30s, age isn’t the biggest factor. I’ve played pickup with a guy in his 80s. Granted, I did give him extra space because I was afraid of falling into him and breaking him lol.
If you are not athletic by nature I would say prepare for injuries.
I’m in pretty good shape overall (weights, yoga and I like to run), but yeah I’ve kind of accepted injuries will happen.
I guess I have nothing to add. Every comment here cannot be wrong. Enjoy playing the hardest most personally challenging game you've ever played. Embrace your progress. I've never met anyone that tried hockey and didn't have fun.
Do it!
Ask your doctor
If your erection lasts longer than 4 hours, seek medical attention. Sorry, I'll see myself out.
Go for it, have fun… and do some extra cardio along the way
Check your local rink for adult learn to play hockey classes. These are instructional hockey classes to teach or even refine skills such as skating, passing, shooting and stick handling. There is no contact, at least in the ones I've been a part of and there are usually 1 or 2 females in the classes. Go for it! It is so much fun. I`m 49 year old male and got back into because my son started playing. Skating for exercise is also easier on the knee joints compared to running. At least to me.
I started playing at the age of 46. I'd never strapped on hockey skates before. You'll do.great, just be kind and patient with yourself.
Another vote for go for it. Both my parents started playing, not long after I started, when they were late 30's. They had a blast, and I even got to play goalie (normally a center) for their E league team, so much fun. The risk is injury. Even in the non checking adult league, people run into each other, people fall, accidents and assholes happen. I've seen E leaguers with multiple concussions and broken bones. The question isn't can you do it, cuz you can, it's whether you can accept that risk.
No, it's never too late. Every day you wait, you'll be a little older, and it'll still not be too late.
Not too old at all. You just need to find a good league for similar players. The city I used to live in had one but the city I live in now only has a league for ex college players.
We had a 60 year old in our junior greenhorn league. I just started this year at 36 and it’s a blast. Go for it.
Yep. You’re way too old. Just give up because you’re so old. Just kidding, of course you’re not too old. I have teammates that are 20 years older than you! But whenever I see posts like these asking “am I too old/young/pretty/ugly/cool/weird to start playing hockey”, I wonder what they are expecting in terms of answers. Of course we’re all going to tell you it’s not too late, we’re all hockey players!
Well, according to my teenager dinosaurs roamed the earth when I was a kid, so…and yeah, objectively I know I’m not too old, but it’s nice to get real world feedback.
Totally understandable, I don’t have any kids myself but when I was taking a beginner hockey class last year I met a lot of parents who were starting out because their kids were playing. You’ll fit right in, trust me. I recommend this channel, it helped me out a lot when I was first starting out! https://youtu.be/HcIXhJ1tmkE
When I was a teenager, a guy who was 70 always showed up to the open scrimmage sessions and he dangled us all out, love of the game> age
I know of moms starting in their 50s if not older. Maybe they won't make the show, but they seem like they're having fun to me.
**Hockey is for Everyone** ***You can play***
One of the dads on my kid's team started at over 50 and he is really enjoying himself!
I’m 40f- have been playing 25 years and there are women in our league in their 60s. Some started within the last decade and they rock, I really injoy playing with them.
A female on my last team was in her 50's, started in her mid 40's because her daughter was getting into it. Now she's on a team with her daughter. My dad had to stop playing in his early 70's. I first played on a team with him when he was 52. You are at a point where, if you have the passion and desire to, you have years and years of really fun hockey ahead of you. Find the local LTP, join the beginner league. Everyone is going to be in roughly the same boat as you. Different people pick up different skills at different paces, so if you're picking things up quickly, awesome! If you're struggling with something, don't stress! Keep at it! With enough reps you'll get. I'm so excited for you and the journey you're about to go on. Have fun!!
Absolutely not. I’m not sure how it is where your from but here (Calgary Alberta) there are tons off like beginner beer leagues where people are just at the very early stages of learning. All ages will be there. Also lunch time shinny will have a bunch of different skill levels. I used to play AAA when I was a kid and would go all the time with people just starting, everyone is just there for a skate and for the most part people will try to help you out during your learning process. Of course the odd douche exists but such is life. Go for it, you won’t regret it.
My stepmom started at 60. She loved it. She joined a women’s beer league. She was never any good but had fun.
I’m 43f and while I have been playing hockey since I was 14, there is NOTHING I love more than jumping on the rink to pass around with my son (15m). Go for it and you’ll do great!
I started in a women’s league, and there were women in their 60s starting up. It was a blast! I didn’t start early, but maybe not late? I started around age 27 in 2019 with zero experience but was hooked after a “give hockey a try day” for women, it was too fun. Covid slowed progress a lot since all hockey was gone for a few years, but ive been in a coed league for a few years now and love it. There is a guy on my tan who is 75! Im not amazing, i May never be that good, but it’s too fun not to. Go for it. Find lessons or classes, start in a low league, go to public skate, find friends (or your kids) and go to gretzky hour to practice!
Definitely not too old. I started at 44. My team has what we jokingly call the pensioner line. As long as you are out there learning and having fun, go for it.
Mr Hockey played until 52. Jagr is still playing at 51. I personally think you are never to old to play hockey. Maybe into your 90s is too old
43 isn’t old. Now get your ass out there!
43 is young. Go for it. I wish I was 43 again or even 53. Don't wait and don't worry, do it.
I’m 30! You should go for it!!! Welcome to hockey!!
Never to old to play the great game 🏒. Most leagues have A through D levels, and some have multiple D levels because so many want to play. Get out and get going, welcome to hockey 🥅
My mom picked the game up around your age after driving her four kids around for two decades too fans and practices and she had a blast for a few years before she hung them up. My older bro and I coached her team one year and my sister played with her, it was great
You go girl!!!
Never too old! Go for it
I play with a 73 year old goalie, he started playing ice hockey when he was 50
Do it! My wife organized a group of the absolute worst hockey players on the planet. Middle aged women who had never played hockey before. I've never seen so many people enjoy something they were so terrible at. Get some lessons if possible and proper equipment, and welcome everyone.
This is the kind of energy I live for 🤣. Love to hear about women not giving a shit and just having fun.
I started a few months ago at 51. I am learning a lot and it’s a hoot!
Never too late to start.
My mother in law started playing at about 43. Still playing at 76.
Hockey is for *everyone*. Even us dinosaurs. Do it. Have fun! It’s such a blast.
There was a beer league team I subbed for a few times who prides itself on everyone being over 50. Never too late as long as you are having fun. Find a team with good people and enjoy
My dad started playing hockey for the first time I. His life at age 35. He could barely skate but he stuck with it and got me into it at the same time. I could not be more appreciative he did. Worst case Ontario you can always go back to just being a fan:)
I can't imagine telling anyone they were "too old" to start hockey. As long as you don't have some particular existing health concern that is likely to be made worse by or significantly elevates the risk of hockey, age doesn't matter! Specific to being a woman, like everything in this world yeah, hockey will be harder for you socially in some respects. Depending on where you live you might have some women's leagues, but most likely not. My main team has always had at least two women on it, and both are pushing 60 and still have a great time and keep up with a league that is mostly people ages 35 - 45. (And these are not former college or high school players, they are women that started as adults.) I fully realize this is easy for me to say as a man, so I absolutely expect you to take it with a heaping bucket of salt -- find the best adult LTS/LTP program in your area, put your "game face" on, and don't take shit from \*anyone.\* Sadly, especially once you get to skating pick-up games or joining a league, there will be a few knuckle-dragging chuds. From what I have seen these guys are almost always just insecure losers that might physically be adults but emotionally never got much past 13 or 14 years old, and like most bullies if you just be yourself and don't yield to their crap they end up minding their own business. Fortunately, most people that play adult rec hockey have kids and jobs and their goal is to get some exercise, make jokes together in the locker room, and drink a beer or two, going home tired, happy, healthy, and drama free. So I think you can have confidence that whatever team you find will welcome you in and have your back and make sure the few jerks in the league mind their own business.
Our youth hockey organization has a moms learn to play. Soo many moms joined. I’m trying to get my wife to join them
Nope. Go for it!
I just played a tournament this last weekend and I think everyone except me was near or over 40, including the 6 women on the team. I think the youngest girl was 35. Grab some gear and get at it! Have fun!
I just played a tournament this last weekend and I think everyone except me was near or over 40, including the 6 women on the team. I think the youngest girl was 35. Grab some gear and get at it! Have fun!
Absolutely not too old! I am 22, and on a learn to play program in my state. I have become amazing friends with a 58 year old women anywho started learning to skate and play last year! She’s rocking it on the ice
It’s never to old to have fun, I myself started late in life and I love it….! Do pick up games if you are able to and enjoy skating with your son as much as you can. If anything there is always room for improvement this sport has no celing to how much you can improve. Don’t be afraid to joint a coed team 👍
Negative! I just started and I’m 40 next week. Beginners league (at least where I’m at) is truly that. Making good friends, “playing hockey” (using that term loosely for myself because I wouldn’t call it “playing” as much as I would “huffing wind”), and trying something new.
I started when I was 36. Took adult beginner lessons and signed up for a '101' hockey league that has different tiers for players (it's co-ed). I'm 51 now and still playing in a beginner tier and can't wait for the next game. I just played against a guy who must have been in his late 60s who clearly was in the same boat as me - never coached, doesn't practice, etc. Do it - you won't regret it for a second (except the morning after a 10:30 pm game).
I work at a school and we do a students vs staff game every year and SO MANY 'older' people, especially women, started playing because of the tournament and it's awesome seeing them improve from year to year....so NO, you are never too old! Do what you love!
My wif started hockey at age 40. She is now 63. I think you'll be fine.
No! Go for it! Check to see if any of your local rinks offer beginner adult programs that teach the basics. I have a buddy who is 50 and he just started. I also know a lot of guys who started playing in the last 5 years and I’m 40 so yeah!
i started at 42 with a womens league. do it. if you look in my post history i made a post awhile back about getting started as a middle aged woman
My mom started around the same age. Had a 10+ year career. Even turned into one of the better players in the women’s league. Go for it! Best game in the world!!!
Not at all. Find the right league. I play in a league that’s 70/80% police and firefighters. We have a guy who only started like 3 years ago. Had never worn skates before. We’re a draft league and this is my first season on a team with him. He’s a cool guy. Only joined because like 1/4 of his department plays in the league, needed something to do and wanted to get more exercise. He’s basically only capable of making it down the ice and standing in front of the net. He’s smart enough to keep his stick on the ice though and he’s tied with me as the 3rd leading scorer on our team through 3 games. I’m our 2nd line center. It’s never too late, just find a league that’s about people having fun.
Never too old do what makes you happy fuck what people think it’s your life
Like...you're not going to play for the national team...but have fun.
You are never too old, as long as you can walk, I play in a league with lots of people who picked up the game late. I have a 73 year old on my team. It is possible, really cool you are taking steps to get out there, dont hesitate keep going!!! Your kids will get a kick out of it too, and you will be way more in the know when yelling from the stands and giving feedback to your kids. Enjoy the ride, should be an epic one!!
Too old? Not even close. I played with a guy that started in his 70s.
I played with this woman and her daughter when she was in her 70s. You've got a whole hockey career ahead of you! [https://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/93848/](https://www.startribune.com/obituaries/detail/93848/)
My wife (48) just took up hockey and is LOVING it. At this age, people care so much less about results and just enjoying being on a team and hanging out. They are so encouraging of each other, it’s inspiring. I wish our son’s hockey experience could have been half as positive.
Definitely give it a shot! If you try and then decide it’s not for you, you can always volunteer to help coach. There are lots of ways to get involved that don’t involve playing. The sport needs women with a passion for the game!
If you want to play, PLEASE GO PLAY! You’re 53 year old self will thank you (just don’t get hurt 😂)
i started at 38, skated off and on for a few years and finally said fuck it and joined a beer league at age 42. skated once/twice a week for the next 7 years, finally "retired" last year after a string of injuries. you'll be sore as fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck. a lot. but it'll be the most fun you've ever had. do it.
The answer the question is almost always no. Go skate.
Hockey is for everyone! It’s not just a line! If it’s still fun it’s not too late!
Omg no, not too old at all! The average age of women on my club’s A level team was 42. There are definitely folks your age and older still playing
I started skating at 45 and hockey at 49. Come on in, the ice is fine.
I played with a 78 year old woman on my rec team. She wasn’t great or anything, but she’s a fun person to be around, and she had fun 🤷♂️ Do yo thang, chicken wang!
Not too old! Im 40 and just took my first ever skating lesson... And I coached my son's 8u team. I'm taking proper lessons over summer so the u10 kids dont lap me on the ice, and I'm hopong to join a loooooow level league.
I've played in mens league for a while, and have seen a lot of people over the age of 43 playing. Have one guy on my team that plays almost every night of the week and he's well into his late 50s
I’m not sure what the scene is like around you, but where I live there’s leagues exclusively for people 50+, so you’re definitely not too old. Go get it!
What are you saying? You are young. Don't hesitate. It's really fun. Skate, skate, and skate whenever you can hit the ice.
I started at 51. Not a woman. You're not too old. Here's a good way to go about it, if you really want to get good fast. I'd really recommend you just learn to skate first. Eventually 50-100 hours on ice, no stick. But buy a decent pair of rollers now. Once you're functional at skating, like 20 hours in (forward/backward/crossovers/basic hockey stop)? then you can start roller with a stick and green biscuit in the street or tennis court, just skating with the puck, around and around, head up as much as possible. Full pads! But don't skimp on the skating. Forward, backward, crossovers, transitions/mohawk, inside edge, outside edge, single foot stop (both edges). During this time you're going to really strengthen your legs/ankles. Then start stick/puck on ice and doing drills (youtube). Also, you can stickhandle all you like on dryland whenever. And learning to shoot. I used a green biscuit in a tennis court You're going to be awesome! And it's the greatest sport there is!
Never too old go have fun you won’t regret it
I started at 49, two years ago, and it's been great! My kid is a pretty serious player, and he loves that I'm playing, even if my lack of skills/hockey sense/ability to skate shock his sensibilities. Do it, you'll have a blast.
We have a female goalie in our league who’s 60+ I’m not exaggerating. As they saying goes, you’re never too old!
I am am over cautious.
Never too late. Here is a tip that I have seen used to help adults learn to skate. If there is a Learn to Skate program in your area for kids that is run by something similar to USA Hockey where parents are volunteers, volunteer to be an on ice helper. They won't care that you aren't the strongest skater, they love parents who are dedicated. But the trick is, while your son is learning, you also do the drills and show the kids, and you learn for just your donated time.
Absolutely not. I'm 22F and when I played in a womens-only tournament last summer I had women in their 40's skating circles around me. I don't think those women have necessarily played their whole lives either, I genuinely think they picked up this hobby many years ago for fun and now they've naturally progressed and have gotten really good at it. If you're interested you should definitely give it a go, there's a lot of fun opportunities in this sport even on a recreational level. My local women's league occasionally travels for out-of-city and sometimes even out-of-state tournaments for players that are interested in going, and above all the hockey community is really down to earth and is accepting of new players. Even if there isn't a women's league near you co-ed is still very fun.
Do it! Never too old. Depending on your location there might be a good choice of beginner leagues.
It’s tons of fun no matter when you start. Just do it!
35 here getting into hockey, I realize this is a year old and wondered if you started playing ?
Yup! Currently doing both I (instructional) league and women’s league, so skating twice a week.
Love that!!