Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian residing in Vancouver and an ardent Edmonton Oilers supporter, shared her perspective on her journey with hockey in Canada. She vividly recalls the 2010 Winter Olympics final where Sidney Crosby’s unforgettable golden goal secured victory for Canada against the U.S. The nation erupted in joy, with honking cars and echoing renditions of “O Canada” everywhere.
Having recently moved from the Philippines, Tan was struck by how a hockey triumph could unite an entire country. Subsequently, she developed an interest in the sport, noticing its pervasive presence in her daily life in Canada. Attending her first live game in 2014, an Edmonton Oilers versus Anaheim Ducks matchup, Tan was swept up in the electrifying atmosphere of Rexall Place.
As Tan immersed herself in the hockey culture of Edmonton, she realized the sport’s significance in the city’s fabric. From witnessing colleagues don Oilers jerseys to understanding the intense Battle of Alberta rivalry, she grasped that hockey transcends mere sport to become a cultural cornerstone in Canada.
Her passion for hockey deepened over the years, symbolized by the Oilers towels she proudly displays in her kitchen. Moving to Vancouver in 2016, Tan’s love for the game was reignited through her partner Mike, a devoted hockey enthusiast. Together, they bond over Hockey Night in Canada, sharing dinners and rooting for their respective teams.
Despite their diverse backgrounds and interests, Tan and Mike embrace their differences, finding common ground in their shared love for hockey. Through Mike, Tan learned the nuances of the game, bridging their worlds and enriching their relationship. Their mutual respect for each other’s passions extends to attending tennis events and hockey games together, embodying the spirit of unity in their love story with Canada.
From the initial awe-inspiring moment of the 2010 Winter Olympics to present day, Tan’s journey with hockey reflects its profound impact as a catalyst for patriotism, community bonding, and personal growth in her Canadian experience.