Ok mate, im the same but ive only been playing (seriously) since me 17th birthday, so a few months.
I've hung about the practice fields for a while and just played with the rabble, i havnt been down there enough to drawn any attention to scouters or teams who are willing to join yet. But, i suggest you go down there and borrow some of their gear at first, ive found most use ions for rental which i find to be a very good starting marker, personally ive found that its fine out the box...but many people say to get a better barrel (Freak kit, mini/junior; i forget which, and a new feedneck, also if you get the chance a firebolt for better air effeciency).
I just have a stock ion and get on with it happily, also i've used an invert mini, if your willing to spend a little more than an ion for £150 go for the mini, round about £200 from what ive seen.
Air systems, i managed to get one that can handle about 1000 shots and more for about £150 from my local training grounds.
Hope this helps