Hi, I just got my orders to Iwakuni and I just have a few questions about the place. I am a single Lance Corporal and I play hockey (ice & roller). I was wondering if there was a ice skating rink on base or in town to play hockey at? Also if there is one in Iwakuni or a city over would I be able to play or would the liberty policy for a single marine prohibit me from playing? Does anyone know what the liberty policy is for a single Lance Corporal  over there?
Thanks a lot, I was just wondering if it would be worth me bringing my hockey equipment or leaving it at home.

I've heard about an ice rink somewhere out in town, or the next town over. I just googled & can't find anything about it. You'll need a liberty buddy to go offbase and you won't be able to drive. You need to get a sponsor who can answer all the questions on liberty policy. I'm a retiree & contractor so I don't pay too much attention to that.

I've heard of youth trips for ice skating, but never for Single Marines. Check out www.mccsiwakuni.com including info on the Single Marine Program which is pretty good. My recommendation is leave your gear at home, maybe boxed up for shipping. If you ever succeed in finding or starting a league (which is doubtful) then someone could mail the gear to you. Otherwise, you'll just be tripping over it the next coupla years.

Update -- I asked around a bit and was told that yes, some Marines have formed up a team & play against local Japanese teams.  Bring your gear & get ready to rumble!

I would be interested in knowing what the name of the rink is and if there's some online presence to the hockey league. I am looking to keep up with hockey while in Japan. We just got told they were switching our orders from Yokosuka to Iwakuni, so I guess we will be in town in the later part of this year.