My name is Craig. I'm 37 years old, and I'm going to learn to play hockey.
Technically, I have some experience playing roller hockey a few decades ago, but living in a small town in central California meant I mostly just skated around with a friend or two. Pick up games were few and far between, and leagues simply didn't exist in my area back then. As such, any skills I had have undoubtedly atrophied over the ensuing years. Not to mention, I never had anyone to teach me how to do things properly. For all practical purposes, I'm starting fresh with a small amount of skating ability.
So why am I going to learn to play hockey at the ripe old age of 37? The short answer is that I love the game and am tired of watching it on TV wishing I knew how to play. I also decided it was time to engage in some new activities and meet some new people. And yeah...my lazy ass needs more exercise too.
In these pages, I'll detail my journey from middle-aged hockey noob, to eventual league player, and finally NHL super star. Hey, I can still dream right?
In preparation for this momentous expedition, I've acquired the following gear:
Bauer Vapor X4.0 Skates
Reebok 8k Helmet with iTech FX50 shield/cage combo
Bauer one40 Gloves
Alkali CA3 Stick
Alkali CA3 Inline Skates (for off ice practice)
Green Biscuit Training Puck
Smart Hockey Training Ball
I'm still waiting for delivery of my skates. Once they arrive and I have them baked, I'll start attending two classes at one of my local rinks. One is an adult developmental class which teaches the fundamentals of skating, passing, shooting, and stick handling. The other focuses more on skating and conditioning.
If you find this blog interesting, you might also enjoy My Only Goal, where another 30-something documented his experience learning to play hockey. Thanks for the inspiration, Bigman!
