Ice hockey can look intimidating, but people start every year with little or no experience. Whether you’re an adult beginner, a returning skater, or looking for a team for your child, Cambridge has a clear pathway into the sport — supported by Cambridge Ice Arena and local clubs, with support from equipment specialists.
This guide explains:
- How to start ice hockey from scratch
- What equipment you really need
- All the teams that train at Cambridge Ice Arena, with links and joining conditions
- How equipment specialists can help you get on the ice and keep progressing
A Simple Path Into Ice Hockey
1. Learn the skating basics first
You do not need hockey skills to begin — skating confidence comes first. Most beginner hockey sessions expect:
- Confident forwards skating
- Basic stopping (snowplough at first, hockey stop later)
- Turning both directions
- Some backwards skating and transitions
Public skating sessions, Learn to Skate courses, and private or group coaching are all good ways to build this foundation.
2. Get the right equipment (without overspending)
You don’t need to buy everything up front.
Best approach for beginners:
- Rent or borrow skates and pads initially
- Buy your own helmet, stick, gloves, neck guard and mouthguard early
- Upgrade equipment gradually as you commit
This avoids expensive mistakes while you learn what fits and what you like.
3. Join a beginner-friendly team or session
Cambridge has university teams, women’s league hockey, junior hockey, and recreational adult teams — many of which welcome new players or mixed abilities.
A full list of teams training at Cambridge Ice Arena is below.
Finding equipment and professional support
Use the guidance and tools here first. For individual advice, use Ask an Expert to request a connection with a supporter.
Equipment: buy or rent
Ice hockey equipment hire
Hire schemes may help beginners, returning skaters and growing juniors. Ask the rink or a local provider what is available.
Buying hockey skates and gear
Hockey skates and equipment are available to buy online, with pickup available at Cambridge Ice Arena.
Skate maintenance (this really matters)
Good edges make learning much easier.
Skate sharpening
Professional sharpening for hockey skates, with advice on hollow and setup.
Repairs and adjustments
Blade mounting, alignment, boot adjustments, baking/thermoforming, and general maintenance.
Read the maintenance guide, explore equipment selection, or ask a supporter about sharpening and setup.
Ice Hockey Teams Training at Cambridge Ice Arena
Below is a complete list of ice hockey teams that train at Cambridge Ice Arena, including who they are for and how to contact them.
League & Competitive Teams
Cambridge Kodiaks (Women’s)
- Women’s ice hockey team competing in the WNIHL
- Suitable for players with skating and basic hockey ability
- Contact the team regarding training and try-outs
Links:
Website: https://cambridgekodiaks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cambridge-Kodiaks-100093996412957
Cambridge University Ice Hockey Club (CUIHC)
Teams include:
- Men’s Blues
- Women’s Blues
- Development teams (e.g. Huskies)
Conditions: Open to University of Cambridge students (and eligible members) only
Links:
University club page: https://www.sport.cam.ac.uk/student-sport/university-sports-clubs/ice-hockey-club
Club website: https://cuihc.com
UEA Avalanche
- University of East Anglia ice hockey team
- Non-checking, mixed-ability
- States “no try-outs” and inclusive participation
Conditions: UEA students, staff, or alumni
Links:
BUIHA profile: https://buiha.org.uk/club/27
UEA Students’ Union: https://www.ueasu.org/opportunities/club/ice_hockey_figure/
Junior Hockey
Cambridge Grizzlies Junior Ice Hockey Club
- Junior ice hockey club
- Arena listing notes under-14s
Conditions: Age limits apply — contact the club for details
Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cambridge-Grizzlies-JIHC-100086729190592
Recreational & Community Teams
Cambridge Narwhals
- Adult recreational ice hockey team
- Mixed ability
- Weekly training sessions
Conditions: Contact the team directly regarding level and equipment
Links:
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CambridgeicehockeyNarwhals/
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/139730702860575/
Warbirds/Tri-Base Lightning
Originally two distinct teams, but now under one club management structure.
- Warbirds is an EIHA-registered recreational team
- Tri-base is a recreational ice hockey team
- Both teams open players of all abilities
Conditions: Tri-base Lightning is open to U.S. Forces in the UK, DoD civilians/contractors, and dependents (18+). Warbirds is open to all.
Links:
Warbirds Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warbirdsih/
Warbirds Team App: https://warbirds.teamapp.com/
Tri-base Website: https://www.tribasehockey.org/
Tri-base Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriBaseLightning/
Quick Checklist for Your First Hockey Session
- Skates that fit properly and are freshly sharpened
- Helmet with cage or visor (mandatory)
- Gloves, shin/knee protection, and elbow pads
- Mouthguard
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early — getting dressed takes time
Note that different rules and regulations apply to each team/practice sessions. Always check with the team to ensure you have the correct mandatory equipment for practice. As a general guide, u18s should have full kit including a full face protection and neck guard. Adults may not require all items, but it's highlight recommended.
Explore the guidance here, then ask an experienced fitter, coach or technician if you need individual help.
Want Help Getting Started?
If you’d like advice tailored to:
- Adult beginners
- Women starting hockey
- Juniors moving from skating to hockey
- Equipment selection or setup
Get in touch with us.