Hey, welcome to simply maya!

Regarding maya versions, virtually all training material will be fine with newer versions (backwards, not as much). Though some menu names etc. change a bit, newer versions like 2010 won't lose functionality. That said, if you can get 2009 for significantly cheaper, go for it. 2010 has added built in compositing software, and some live tracking functionality with some minor stuff too... check out the what's new at autodesk for a full run-down. Almost all training out now uses 2009 and before, so you're not going to lose anything that way with choosing 2009.

So in short, check if there's new stuff in 2010 that you'd really like, don't worry too much about what version tutorials use, and check the price tag.

Regarding animation and modeling, no, it's not necessary to know modeling to do animation, but it does help. Also, you'll be able to make your own rigs to animate, and you'll have a better understanding of the whole program, especially if this is a hobby, it's good to know a bit about it all. Drawing? No, it's not necessary to be a good drawer, but, like the modelling, it does help. Sketch out your ideas for models and you'll get better over time. But don't let that stop you from modeling, you can still create great stuff even if you can't use a pencil.

Hope that helps you out. Ask more questions if you have them, there's lots of really helpful people on these forums.