This personal account is by Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian residing in Vancouver and a dedicated fan of the Edmonton Oilers. For more personal stories like this, visit the FAQ page.
My introduction to hockey came during the 2010 Winter Olympics, where I witnessed the thrilling final match against the U.S., culminating in Sidney Crosby’s game-winning goal in overtime.
Watching the game with friends on Vancouver Island, the jubilant celebrations that followed across Canada left a lasting impression on me. The unity and sheer joy that a hockey victory could bring to an entire nation was a sight to behold.
Having recently moved from the Philippines to Canada, where hockey was a foreign concept to me, this momentous event sparked my curiosity about the sport’s significance. As I settled into my new life, hockey seemed to permeate my surroundings, from people donning jerseys to the spirited cheers echoing through my apartment building during games.
My first live hockey experience took place in spring 2014 at a match between the Edmonton Oilers and the Anaheim Ducks. Immersed in the sea of orange-clad fans at Rexall Place, I felt a sense of belonging as I witnessed the team’s victory and the ensuing joyous atmosphere.
This experience illuminated the profound presence of hockey in my city, with colleagues proudly sporting Oilers’ jerseys and the team’s performance affecting the office atmosphere. Phrases like the “Battle of Alberta” became familiar, shedding light on the fierce rivalry between Edmonton and Calgary.
I soon realized that in Canada, hockey transcends being merely a sport; it holds a cultural and almost religious significance. As I delved deeper into hockey culture, including learning about legends like Wayne Gretzky, my appreciation for the sport grew.
My interest in hockey blossomed, leading me to become a dedicated viewer of games, particularly engrossed in events like the Battle of Alberta. I proudly displayed my Oilers-themed kitchen towels, a symbol of my newfound passion for the sport that mirrored my integration into Canadian life.
As my love for hockey flourished alongside my assimilation into Canadian culture, engaging in hockey conversations at work fostered a sense of belonging and connection.
Rediscovering the Passion
In 2016, I relocated to Vancouver following a job loss in Edmonton, embarking on a new chapter in a new city. Adjusting to my new environment and seeking employment consumed my initial focus, temporarily sidelining my hockey enthusiasm.
By 2018, settled in Vancouver, I met Mike, a fervent hockey enthusiast who reignited my passion for the sport. Our shared love for Hockey Night in Canada and game-day rituals strengthened our bond, with Mike even embracing the Oilers as his team.
Our differing backgrounds and preferences, including our favorite sports, led to a harmonious compromise, where