Never Played Hockey Before

Question
Hello Martial, I want to start playing hockey, but the thing is, I've never played before, let alone been ice skating.
I've been playing football for about 9 years, I'm 16 now, and I'm just getting bored of it, and hockey has always interested me. I'm in great physical shape, and I did well in football, but I want to make the switch to hockey. I'm just wondering if I'm way to late to start, or if I'll even have a chance against kids who have been playing their whole lives. I intend to start ice skating and work on becoming a good skater before I even think about playing hockey. I was also wondering how much all the equipment would cost, and what's a good place to buy it. Thanks for taking the time to read all this and answer it.
-Derek

Answer
Hi Derek

Welcome to the great game of Hockey ...  it is indeed a fantastic game.

I would suggest you purchase decent quality (not top end though) USED equipment ... if you go to most Play It Again sports stores - you can pick up some really good used gear.  This way you don't have to spend a whole lot of money to get started and more importantly you skip the sometimes tough break in period.   You will want a skate that is not the STIFF high end kind to start.   And if they have been used - there will be some softness to them.

The same goes for any gear.  Pants, shoulder, shin, elbow bads can all be acquired in good used conditions....  you can check out ebay.com as well!

As for learning the game --  the most important thing to focus on in the beginning is SKATING.  Skate every chance you get.  Learn as much of the game and the technical aspects as you can.  

There is a ton of stuff one can say...  but my number one piece of advice is take your time, be patient and HAVE FUN with every step of the process...  hockey is physically challenging and can take some time to master...  the key is therefore in having fun with all the aspects of learning and practicing it... it's never too late to learn - especially if you are having fun, cuz if you are - you are already a winner!  Keep your expectations reasonable - set small goals and just keep having fun working on it!

Feel free to ask any specific questions you may have.  

I'd be happy to help!

Good luck,

martial