Written by Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian and Edmonton Oilers enthusiast residing in Vancouver, this First Person column shares her journey with hockey. Find out more about First Person stories here.
My introduction to hockey was during the 2010 Winter Olympics, where I witnessed the intense final match against the U.S., culminating in Sidney Crosby’s game-winning goal in overtime.
Watching the game with friends on Vancouver Island, I witnessed the nationwide jubilation as Canada celebrated the victory with honking cars and renditions of O Canada echoing everywhere.
Having recently moved to Canada from the Philippines, I was astounded by how a hockey triumph could unite an entire nation so passionately. It was a remarkable demonstration of unity.
This experience sparked my interest in the sport. While settling into my new life, I sporadically tuned in to hockey games on TV. The fervor of that fateful day in 2010 wasn’t quite replicated, but hockey seemed to follow me as I noticed people donning jerseys and cheering loudly during games.
It wasn’t until spring 2014 that I attended my first live hockey game, watching the Edmonton Oilers face off against the Anaheim Ducks. Immersed in the crowd’s excitement at Rexall Place, the victory and the shared joy of the fans left a lasting impression on me.
Gradually, I realized the immense impact of hockey in my city. Colleagues sported Oilers’ jerseys to work, and the team’s performance could influence the office mood. Terms like “Battle of Alberta” intrigued me, leading me to discover the intense rivalry between Edmonton and Calgary, epitomizing the sport’s cultural significance in Canada.
In Canada, hockey transcends being just a sport; it holds a revered status akin to a religion, deeply woven into the cultural fabric. Streets named after hockey legends like Wayne Gretzky piqued my interest, prompting me to explore the legacy of these icons online.
As I started watching games on TV and integrating into Canadian life, my fondness for hockey grew. Keeping up with events like the Battle of Alberta became a priority, evident in the Oilers towels adorning my kitchen since my early days as a new immigrant.
My affection for hockey blossomed in parallel with my assimilation into Canadian society, allowing me to engage in office discussions about the sport and fostering a sense of belonging.
Reviving the Passion
In 2016, I relocated to Vancouver after losing my job in Edmonton, focusing on rebuilding my life in a new city. Adapting to the change, I temporarily set aside hobbies like watching hockey.
By 2018, settled in Vancouver, I met Mike, a fervent hockey enthusiast. Our shared passion for Hockey Night in Canada and special game-night rituals gradually rekindled my love for the sport.
Mike, now an Oilers fan