Some people may be surprised to find out that I love ice hockey. I grew up playing field hockey and fell in love with the NHL during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Because of the players I fell in love with, the Vancouver Canucks slowly became my favorite team. I got to know the players from interviews, followed each game as best as I could and developed a strong sense of passion and respect for the game.
As I started to tell people about my favorite team, I was surprised on how some reacted. Instead of support, I got backlash. Yes, some of it was because I wasn't supporting the Philadelphia Flyers, but most of it was because people saw suddenly I was invested in a sport that some people have grown up watching. Little did they know, though, that hockey had always been a part of my life and I am dedicated to keeping it there.
Let's rise against the stigmas that face us female hockey fans, and keep supporting the teams we love.
1. No one takes you seriously.
2. "You only follow that team because you think they're hot."
Yeah some players are easy on the eyes, but that is NOT AT ALL why I keep up with my favorite team and players. The passion for the game the players have is one of the most important things that can draw you in.
3. You are constantly being tested on if you know the game or not.
Yes, I know why that call was made. I can probably tell you more about what's happening right now than what you can tell yourself.
4. When you name your favorite player, people ask if it is because he is attractive.
I don't base my favorites off of who is the hottest. Sure, I think about who are the hottest players in the league right now, but most of them aren't even on my top 20 favorites list. Tyler Seguin is one of my favorite players because his game is flawless. He already has 27 points for the 2015-2016 season, and he just happens to be pretty hot.
5. You cannot get enough apparel to wear to support your team.
Shop.nhl.com comes up in your browser when you type in "s." The license plate, a long sleeve, a hockey puck, a poster... you name it. And there is nothing wrong with me wearing a girly t-shirt that reps my team. The only struggle is waiting for it to get here.
6. People assume you only watch to impress guys.
I'm probably more aware of what's happening right now than you are.
7. You watch hockey for more than the fights.
They're just a bonus.
8. We can like the game just as much as any man can.
Let's just enjoy the game.
