Starting Hockey at 40 in Ottawa: What Beginners Should Know
- Richard Kirby
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Many people in Ottawa think about playing hockey but hesitate because they feel they started too late.
A common question we hear is:
“Can I start playing hockey at 40?”
The answer is simple.
Yes — and many people do.
Every year, adults in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s decide to try hockey for the first time. Some start after watching their kids play. Others always loved the game but never had the chance to learn when they were younger.
Starting hockey later in life may feel intimidating at first, but many adult beginners quickly discover that learning the game is both fun and rewarding.
You Are Not the Only Beginner
One of the biggest fears adults have when starting hockey is the idea that everyone else will already be experienced.
In reality, many beginner hockey players are learning the same skills at the same time.
Some players are still working on:
stopping comfortably
skating backwards
controlling the puck
understanding positioning
This is exactly why beginner-friendly hockey programs exist.
The goal is not perfection. The goal is learning and improving together.
Adult Beginner Hockey in Ottawa
The Ottawa Hockey Hub community created the Ottawa West Beginners Hockey (OWBH) program specifically for adult players who are new to hockey or returning after years away from the sport.
The program welcomes players who are:
• true beginners
• returning players
• people looking to improve their skills
Many participants join while they are still developing basic skating ability.
Over time, confidence and skills improve through practice, games, and support from teammates.
Learning Hockey Takes Time
Just like any sport, hockey is learned step by step.
Most adult beginners improve through a combination of:
playing beginner-friendly games
participating in development practices
building skating confidence
spending time on the ice
The Ottawa Hockey Hub community also offers opportunities to improve through off-ice training and skill development, helping players build strength, balance, and coordination.
Women Starting Hockey as Adults
Many women in Ottawa are also starting hockey as adults, often after years of thinking the sport was only for people who grew up playing.
The Ottawa Hockey Hub community includes a growing group of women players and offers support through:
Women's player representatives who help new players get started
beginner-friendly teammates
women-focused social events
yoga and pre-game stretching sessions
These programs help women build confidence while learning the game.
You can learn more about the women’s program here:
Hockey Is More Than Just the Game
For many players, hockey becomes about more than just learning skills.
It becomes a community.
Players in the Ottawa Hockey Hub community often connect through social events such as:
bowling nights
group dinners
team gatherings
These activities help beginners feel comfortable and build friendships with teammates.
Many players say these social connections are one of the best parts of the experience.
Custom Jerseys and Hockey Apparel
Players also have the option to purchase custom Ottawa Hockey Hub apparel, including:
custom hockey jerseys
hoodies
sweatpants
These items help build team identity and community pride, although participation is always optional.
The Biggest Step Is Showing Up
The hardest part of starting hockey is often simply deciding to try.
Many players worry they will be the worst player on the ice.
But once they start, they usually realize that beginner hockey is full of people learning together and supporting each other.
With time, practice, and encouragement from teammates, most beginners quickly gain confidence.
Ready to Start Hockey?
If you have ever thought about trying hockey but felt unsure about starting later in life, you are not alone.
Many players in Ottawa started the same way and now enjoy being part of a supportive hockey community.
Whether you are learning the game for the first time or returning after many years away, there is a place for you.
Learn more about the Ottawa West Beginners Hockey program here:
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