Reasonable L Lens for hockey rinks

My G2 with 420 flash and 2x Kenko just doesn't have range in
the rink and so I'd like to move into DSLR realm.

Hence, I will buy a 20D and want to get L glass specifically for the
local community hockey rinks. I'm thinking along the lines of a
70-200 L series. Each rink has different lighting characteristics but
typically poor. To top it off, I must place the camera on the inside of the
protective mesh they've put up, so I want a lense that will
tolerate some shake. Any L glass recommendations to start?

I'll likely want to shoot at iso 400.

Thanks,
Vic

I've used a 70-200 2.8L on a D60 from the penalty box area and found the range to be quite good - if you can get close to the ice surface, anything longer may be too long. I've noticed others use a 135 2L with good results. If the lighting you encounter is anything like the lighting in the rinks out my way, you'll be lucky to shoot at ISO 400 - ISO 800 or higher will more likely be the case. Also, you'd be well advised to do a custom white balance due to the ghastly lighting in most arenas.

I agree with yenoram, the 70-200 2.8L is a great lens for hockey. I also shoot from the penalty box and have had good results and also use 800 iso. The IS version of the lens will not help shake "I must place the camera on the inside of the
protective mesh they've put up, so I want a lense that will
tolerate some shake" , your best way is to see if you can shoot at a different location like the penalty box.

Hi,

A great lens for small sensor EOS bodies and ice hocky with good access, the EF 200 1.8L, incredibly sharp and uncommonly fast aperture and focusing speed. If you cannot get right up to the edge of the rink, EF 300 2.8L is the way to go.

All I will say is you want f/2.8 or faster and 200mm or more....

I've used the 70-200 f/2.8 L to shoot hockey for the last 12 months, initially with a 10D, but recently with my new 1D. It's a great lens for hockey. I shoot from my seat, always at ISO400, and consistently get shutter speeds of around 1/500.

Have a look at: -

http://tredders.smugmu​g.com/sports for some examples.

Cheers.

Mark.