Erlinda Tan, a Filipina Canadian residing in Vancouver and an avid Edmonton Oilers supporter, recounts her journey into the world of hockey. Her fascination with the sport began during the 2010 Winter Olympics when Sidney Crosby’s golden goal led Canada to victory against the U.S. Witnessing the nation’s jubilation post-win sparked her interest in hockey’s unifying power.
Moving from the Philippines to Canada shortly before the Olympics, Erlinda was intrigued by the sport’s ability to connect people across the country. As she settled into her new life, hockey seemed to surround her, from seeing fans don hockey jerseys to hearing cheers echoing in her apartment building during game nights.
Attending her first live game between the Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks in 2014, Erlinda was swept up in the electric atmosphere of the arena. This experience opened her eyes to the significance of hockey in her city, with colleagues wearing Oilers’ jerseys and the game’s outcomes influencing office dynamics.
Embracing hockey as a way to integrate into Canadian culture, Erlinda delved deeper into the sport’s nuances, learning about iconic players like Wayne Gretzky and the intense rivalry between Edmonton and Calgary. She started watching games regularly, even decorating her home with Oilers’ memorabilia, symbolizing her growing affection for the sport.
Following a move to Vancouver in 2016, Erlinda’s passion for hockey was reignited when she met Mike, a dedicated hockey enthusiast. Their shared love for the game became a cornerstone of their relationship, with Saturday night hockey and nachos becoming cherished traditions.
Despite their differing backgrounds and interests, Erlinda and Mike found common ground in their mutual appreciation for each other’s hobbies. While Erlinda introduced Mike to the world of tennis, he educated her about hockey’s intricacies, fostering a bond built on shared experiences and understanding.
Attending hockey games together at Rogers Arena and proudly supporting both the Canucks and Oilers, Erlinda and Mike exemplify how love transcends differences. Through hockey, they celebrate diversity and unity, embodying the essence of their evolving love story with Canada.
