In a spirited display of national pride, Canadian hockey enthusiasts braved the early morning hours to watch their team face off against Finland in the Olympic semifinal. Despite the match kicking off at 7:40 a.m. local time, fans gathered at venues across Western Canada, indulging in breakfast fare and beverages as they cheered for their nation. This year’s Winter Olympics, taking place in Italy, have posed a challenge with their significant time difference, yet that hasn’t dampened the excitement for fans eager to support their team.
Enthusiastic Gatherings Across Western Canada
At the Shark Club Sports Bar and Grill in Vancouver, a lively crowd of over 100 fans packed the venue, eager to witness the thrilling action unfold. With breakfast tacos, home fries, eggs and bacon, as well as coffee, Guinness, and mimosas on the menu, the atmosphere was jubilant. The early start time did little to deter the excitement, and the cheers that followed Canada’s narrow 3-2 victory over Finland echoed through the establishment.
Among the attendees was Simon Marshall, who had just arrived from Australia the night before. Clad in a Canada jersey, he admitted to still getting accustomed to the nuances of hockey but was embracing the Winter Olympics wholeheartedly. “I’ve been watching ‘Mighty Ducks’ to educate myself,” he shared, highlighting his newfound appreciation for the sport.
The Social Experience of Watching Live
For many fans like Malik Dhami and John Cookson, the joy of watching the game was amplified by the communal experience. “We could easily watch from home, but as Canadians, it’s important to be out here,” Dhami remarked, while Cookson expressed the desire for an energetic atmosphere, saying they sought a venue where they could enjoy the game with others.
General manager Murray Saunders mentioned that the bar’s liquor licence had been extended for the Olympics, allowing patrons to enjoy drinks as early as 5:30 a.m. for the upcoming men’s final. “It’s all about cheering on Canada,” he stated, noting that the bar was already fully booked for the gold medal match.
A Family Affair in Edmonton
Over in Edmonton, the atmosphere was just as electric at Kelly’s Pub. Amelia Carruthers, who was enjoying breakfast with her daughter Chloe Paré, emphasised the unique camaraderie experienced in a sports bar setting. “Watching at home doesn’t compare to the energy of being in a crowd,” she noted.
Nearby, Schyla Courtorielle was balancing work and play, enjoying breakfast while keeping an eye on the game. “We can plug in and have the game on in the background while still working,” she explained, highlighting the flexibility of modern viewing experiences. After a hearty meal, Courtorielle and her friend planned to transition to drinks, embracing the full Olympic spirit.
The excitement among fans reached a peak when the crowd at Shark Club broke into a rendition of Stompin’ Tom Connors’ “The Hockey Song” following Canada’s victory. This weekend promises to see similar fervour as fans prepare to gather once more for the gold medal match, with puck drop scheduled for 5 a.m. PT / 8 a.m. ET.
Why it Matters
The enthusiasm displayed by Canadian fans during the early hours of Olympic hockey reflects a deep-rooted passion for the sport and national pride. These gatherings not only strengthen community ties but also showcase how hockey unites people across generations and backgrounds. As Canada vies for gold in the men’s final, the collective spirit of these fans serves as a reminder of the unifying power of sport, especially during significant moments on the international stage.
