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 equipment and services provided by TheRink.
This guide explains:
You do not need hockey skills to begin — skating confidence comes first. Most beginner hockey sessions expect:
Public skating sessions, Learn to Skate courses, and private or group coaching are all good ways to build this foundation.
You don’t need to buy everything up front.
Best approach for beginners:
This avoids expensive mistakes while you learn what fits and what you like.
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.
TheRink is based around Cambridge Ice Arena and supports hockey players at every level.
Ice hockey equipment hire
Rent entry-level skates and hockey kit through TheRink’s Learn to Skate / Hockey Hire scheme. Ideal for beginners, returners, or growing juniors.
Buying hockey skates and gear
Hockey skates and equipment are available to buy online, with pickup available at Cambridge Ice Arena.
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.
🔹 Find out more: https://therink.uk
🔹 Hockey kit hire: https://therink.uk/learn-to-skate-hire/
🔹 Skate sharpening: https://therink.uk/services/sharpening/
Local contact: Rich Andrews – rich@therink.uk
Rich is also a coach for the Cambridge Kodiaks women’s ice hockey team.
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.
Links:
Website: https://cambridgekodiaks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cambridge-Kodiaks-100093996412957
Teams include:
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
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/
Conditions: Age limits apply — contact the club for details
Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Cambridge-Grizzlies-JIHC-100086729190592
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/
Originally two distinct teams, but now under one club management structure.
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/
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.
If you’re unsure about fit, sharpness, or equipment choice, TheRink can help before you ever step on the ice.