JMS Hockey

Hi JMSers, I need some help from you. I received this message recently: ________________ It's nearly 6 months since I originally registered, but I'm still dying to play as badly as ever. The issue that has kept me from getting involved with JMS, however, is that I've never been an indoor player. I've played pond hockey for years and absolutely love it, but taking the next step in this direction has been intimidating for me. ________________ I'm gonna tell him that it doesn't matter, but I know it will mean more coming from the community. Anybody able to respond? Thank you very much!

I would tell him that most who start JMS at the lower levels are likely in the same boat as him and have the same level of apprehension. Most at JMS, even at the highest of levels, are very inviting people who wish to see/help people develop.

I was in the same boat. Just dive in and get out there. Some of the most fun I have ever had.

for real. Just jump in there, You'll be fine. tell the captain you're new. he'll keep an eye on you and make sure all is well.

also, Welcome to the party.

I love pond hockey as well. It's just really difficult to play between March and November. The reason you love pond hockey is because it's unstructured (no referees/coaches/lines), it's cheap, you can play on your timetable, the players are different everytime you play and it's the very definition of rink rat hockey. This, too, is the very definition of JMS. If you love pond hockey you'll love JMS. It has all the benefits of pond hockey. Just without the worked-over ice and shoveling.

The transition from pond to indoor should be a benefit. Smooth ice, no headwind, comfortable temps and surroundings. Try it once and you'll be hooked. If still concerned, come watch a session and your fears will be alleviated. Good luck and welcome!

I was in the same boat. Before starting JMS this season the only hockey experience I had was pond hockey. So glad I made the jump as I am having a blast! I would go play a novice pickup game first and always feel free to talk to the captain or anyone else for that matter. I have found JMS to be a great group of people.

I'm having the same problem. I have played pond hockey my whole life just heard about jms and wanted to start? Will anybody contact me about this to give me a start? 612 708 2064

Yeah, I only played pick-up hockey outside, never shot at a goal with a real goalie, or really knew positional play until I started with JMS. I can say I was apprehensive at first, but excited too. Most everyone I met in those first few sessions were very supportive and just wanted to have fun playing hockey. as for advice... If your short on a set of elbow pads, breezers, or whatever just ask in the forums- someone will loan you what you need to try a game or two. It's only a one game commitment, but try a few to get over the feeling of being a noob (we're almost all noobs really}. Watch a few videos of what the basics are for each position (Defense, winger, and center) for both offence and defense. get used to lifting the puck for passing and shooting with reasonable control (we usually had a no lift rule in effect outside). Going on and off the ice through a bench is easy to learn and players mess it up all the time anyway, So don't sweat trying to be perfect or knowing all the little things, just play and have fun. You'll pick up the little stuff. There are no refs, no scoring, not many fans in the stands, and nobody will holler at you about your game while you're playing- most folks are encouraging. I put off playing what I saw as "organized" hockey too, Think of all the fun games I missed. Go! Play! Now!