Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian residing in Vancouver and a devoted Edmonton Oilers fan, shares her journey of embracing hockey in Canada. Her fascination with the sport began during the 2010 Winter Olympics, witnessing Sidney Crosby’s iconic golden goal against the U.S. that united the nation in jubilation.
Moving to Canada from the Philippines shortly before, Tan was captivated by the passion hockey evoked across the country. Gradually, she immersed herself in the sport’s culture, attending her first live game in 2014 between the Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks, experiencing the electric atmosphere of Rexall Place.
Discovering the significance of hockey in Edmonton, Tan integrated into the city’s hockey fervor, noticing its omnipresence in daily life. She delved into hockey lore, understanding the fervent rivalry in the “Battle of Alberta” and appreciating legends like Wayne Gretzky.
As Tan settled in Vancouver in 2016, she met Mike, a fellow hockey enthusiast, reigniting her love for the sport. Embracing Saturday night hockey rituals with Mike, she found joy in sharing the passion for the game and donning Canucks jerseys, symbolizing their bond.
Through her partnership with Mike, Tan familiarized herself with hockey intricacies, learning terms like cherry-picking and icing. Their diverse interests, including tennis, led them to embrace each other’s hobbies, fostering mutual appreciation and understanding in their relationship.
Attending hockey games together at Rogers Arena, Tan relishes the festive atmosphere akin to a celebration, blending her love for hockey with Canadian culture. Reflecting on her journey from the 2010 Winter Olympics to present, Tan acknowledges hockey’s profound impact on her Canadian experience, igniting patriotism, fostering unity, and sparking meaningful connections.
Tan’s story exemplifies how hockey transcends sport, becoming ingrained in the fabric of Canadian identity and shaping her personal narrative of embracing a new culture through the love of the game.