Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian and Edmonton Oilers enthusiast residing in Vancouver, shares her journey as a hockey fan in Canada. For more personal stories like this, visit the FAQ.
My first exposure to a complete hockey match was during the 2010 Winter Olympics, specifically the intense final between Canada and the U.S., culminating in Sidney Crosby’s golden goal during overtime.
Watching the game with friends on Vancouver Island, I witnessed the nationwide celebration that ensued post-victory, with jubilant scenes of Canadians from all corners expressing joy through honking cars and singing O Canada on trains, buses, and public spaces.
Having recently relocated from the Philippines, where I had only seen hockey in pictures, I was amazed by how a hockey triumph could unite a country so profoundly. It was a remarkable demonstration of national solidarity.
This experience piqued my curiosity about the sport. While adjusting to life in Canada, glimpses of hockey on TV sporadically caught my attention. Although it didn’t evoke the same excitement as that historic day in 2010, the sport seemed to be intertwined with my new life, evident through the presence of hockey enthusiasts and game buzz in my surroundings.
In the spring of 2014, I attended my first live hockey game between the Edmonton Oilers and the Anaheim Ducks, accompanied by a friend who was a dedicated hockey supporter with season tickets.
As the buzzer sounded, reminiscent of ship signals back in the Philippines, I found myself in Edmonton’s Rexall Place, surrounded by a sea of fans clad in orange jerseys chanting “Let’s gooo Oilers!”
What I had previously viewed on TV now unfolded before my eyes, and this time, I was part of the exuberant crowd. Witnessing the Oilers win and observing everyone leave the arena with smiles etched in my memory to this day.
Gradually, I began comprehending the immense popularity of hockey in my city. Colleagues donning Oilers’ jerseys at work and the correlation between the team’s performance and the boss’s mood post-game became evident.
I delved deeper into Canadian hockey culture, realizing that it transcends beyond a mere sport, almost resembling a deep-rooted ethos or belief system. The sport’s integration into everyday life, including references like Wayne Gretzky Drive, further intrigued me as I explored the legend’s impact on the game.
My interest in hockey grew as I started following games on TV, particularly major events like the Battle of Alberta, prompting me to purchase Oilers-themed towels that still adorn my kitchen after nine years.
As I gradually embraced hockey, mirroring my assimilation into Canadian society, engaging in conversations about the sport at work fostered a sense of belonging.
Reviving the Passion
In 2016, following a job