Several years ago, I had a friend who asked me to consider joining the local recreational women’s hockey league. At the time, I didn’t even know there was one! I was hesitant, to say the least.

I mentioned my apprehensions to my friend. For starters, I hadn’t ice skated since I was a kid and I am sure that I never knew how to do a hockey stop, let alone skate backwards. My skate skills were minimal at best. Secondly, I had no equipment and couldn’t fathom spending a lot of money on something I wasn’t even sure I would enjoy.

My friend assured me that beginners were welcome and that they had two (now three) teams of varying ability levels. That way, no one felt out of place and could participate at their current skill level with others who were at a similar skill level.

While I considered this new information, I was still reluctant to purchase gear. Skates aren’t cheap and I was guessing the rest of the equipment wouldn’t be either. Finding used gear can be tough in a small town, especially when hockey is not something everyone does. Searching online for used gear can be a bit of a challenge too, especially when you are not sure of your size.

This same friend advised me to try going to a store called Play It Again Sports. They didn’t have one in my town, so I looked on the internet for the closest one. As the name implies, this store sells (and buys) used sports equipment for kids and adults at locations throughout Canada and the United States. This definitely sounded like the way to go!

Unfortunately, my work schedule didn’t allow for being able to commit to playing with the women’s league, but I haven’t ruled it out for the future. I do know that women well into their 40’s play here, so there is still time!

If you are looking to break up your fall and winter nights with something different, consider the camaraderie of a women’s recreational hockey league in your area. Teams are beginning to practice for the winter season, so don’t wait too long!