yeah, just pickup. skill level is a broad range. some guys who are fresh out of high school and played high school stars, some really good kids.
some kids havent played since high school and are just getting back into it
as far as equiptment- its up to you if you want to wear a facemask, neckgaurd, mouthgaurd, shoulder pads, or elbow pads. but you need skates, shin pads, pants, cup (id hope) gloves and helmet (and stick)