Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know how to skate?

Yes — you'll need to be comfortable on skates before joining us. We expect new players to be able to:

  • Skate forwards and backwards
  • Hockey stop (at least one side)
  • Crossover (at least one direction)
  • Tight turn
Do I need my own equipment?

Yes. All players must bring their own kit. A full set typically includes:

Skater

  • Helmet (with visor or cage)
  • Neck protector
  • Shoulder/chest pads
  • Elbow pads
  • Shin guards
  • Padded shorts
  • Socks, skates, gloves, stick
  • Jock/jill strap
  • Jersey

Netminder

  • Helmet (with cage)
  • Neck protector
  • Chest protector
  • Elbow pads, knee pads
  • Padded shorts, leg pads
  • Skates, blocker and catcher, stick
  • Jock/jill strap
  • Jersey
Can I borrow equipment?

The club doesn't hold a loan kit — hockey equipment is highly personal in terms of fit, and hygiene makes sharing impractical. Occasionally individual players have spare kit available for a one-off session, so it's worth asking around.

When do you train?

We train twice a week at Planet Ice Altrincham:

  • Monday — 21:30 to 22:30
  • Wednesday — 21:15 to 22:15

Sessions run late because the rink prioritises public skating earlier in the evening. We aim to be ice-ready five minutes before the session starts.

How much does it cost?

Individual sessions are £15, payable by cash or card to a committee member before you step on the ice.

If you're training regularly, a monthly standing order of £85 is available — speak to a committee member to set this up.

Are there any registration requirements?

New players can attend on a trial basis for up to one month. On your first session you'll need to complete an England Ice Hockey (EIH) registration form.

After the trial period, full registration with the EIH is required to ensure you're covered by the club's insurance. Registration costs £55, or £25 if you're already registered with another team.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes — players must be 18 or over to register with Manchester Swarm. We currently don't hold the coaching qualifications required to run junior sessions.

How often do you play competitive games?

The EIH recreational level doesn't operate a fixed league, so fixtures vary throughout the season. We enter cups and tournaments hosted by clubs around the UK, and also arrange challenge matches and development scrimmages against other sides.

Is it full-contact hockey?

We're a recreational club, so most of the hockey we play is non-checking. There is physical contact in the game, but we keep it sensible — our players have lives and jobs outside the rink.