Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian residing in Vancouver and an avid Edmonton Oilers fan, shared her journey into the world of hockey. Tan vividly recalled her first exposure to hockey during the 2010 Winter Olympics, where Sidney Crosby’s golden goal sealed a thrilling victory for Canada against the U.S. This momentous event left a lasting impression on Tan, witnessing the nation come together in celebration.
Transitioning from the Philippines to Canada shortly before this event, Tan was intrigued by the unifying power of hockey. As she settled into her new life in Canada, she found the sport following her, from encountering fans in hockey jerseys to the excitement permeating her apartment building during games. Eventually, Tan added hockey to her list of things to learn as a newcomer to Canada.
In 2014, Tan attended her first live hockey game, watching the Edmonton Oilers face off against the Anaheim Ducks. Immersed in the lively atmosphere of the arena, Tan experienced the passion and camaraderie that hockey brought to her new community. This marked the beginning of her deepening appreciation for the sport and its significance in Canadian culture.
As Tan embraced her newfound love for hockey, she discovered the sport’s immense popularity in Edmonton, where discussions about the Oilers and the “Battle of Alberta” rivalry were commonplace. Hockey was not merely a pastime but an integral part of Canadian identity, woven into everyday life and even reflected in street names like Wayne Gretzky Drive.
Over time, Tan’s passion for hockey continued to grow, with the sport becoming intertwined with her journey of integration into Canadian society. Attending games, following matches on TV, and engaging in hockey-related conversations at work became integral to her sense of belonging in her new home.
In 2016, Tan relocated to Vancouver, where she met Mike, a fellow hockey enthusiast. Through their shared love for the sport, Tan and Mike deepened their relationship, bonding over Saturday night hockey gatherings and embracing their differences in sports preferences. As they navigated their diverse interests, from tennis to hockey, Tan and Mike found common ground in their mutual respect for each other’s passions.
Today, Tan and Mike continue to enjoy hockey together, attending games and watching matches on TV, showcasing their support for both the Canucks and Oilers. Through their shared experiences, Tan has come to appreciate hockey not just as a sport but as a unifying force that fosters connections, sparks dialogue, and enriches relationships.
From her initial exposure to hockey during the 2010 Winter Olympics to her ongoing love affair with the sport, Tan’s journey exemplifies the profound impact of hockey on her life in Canada. Embracing hockey has not only enriched her cultural experience but also deepened her sense of belonging and connection to her new home.