March 3, 1875. That is the day my true love was born. I'm not talking about a person though. I'm talking about hockey.
On that day, over one hundred years ago, the first indoor game of hockey was held in Montreal, Quebec. It was played by a group of 18 guys with a wooden disc who had no idea they would make history.
Fast forward to today and that group of 18 guys and that wooden disc have turned into 12 men and a disk made of vulcanized rubber, now called a puck. It is now a sport recognized around the world. It now has hundreds of leagues and players.
Hockey has also become one of my favorite things in this world. I first truly began watching hockey when I was in 8th grade. Before that, I had seen a couple local games, but I was never involved. At this point, hockey has taken over my life.
It started slow, I would watch a game here and there, but it wasn't until I found my team that I became obsessed. The Montreal Canadiens, my pride, and joy. I know that may sound strange coming from a girl who lives in a small town in Pennsylvania.
I just fell in love with the Canadiens. The way they play with so much heart and power is magical to watch. The players truly give everything they have each game. I couldn't help, but feel I was part of the team when I watched. That's how I knew they were my team.
Now, I've heard it all about my love of hockey. Things like "You don't really like hockey, you just think they're hot." or "Name 5 players on the team."
Most of these phrases come up because I am a female who likes hockey. If I'm being honest I didn't even know what half the players on the team looked like until a year later. Their looks weren't important to me.
I would also just like to say to everyone who has tried to make me "prove" I love hockey that I can name every player on my team and at least half on yours.
I watch hockey when I'm sad, happy or nervous. I watch it when I study, write and eat. You name it, I'm probably watching hockey while doing it.
Hockey is my world. I get minute by minute updates for every Canadiens game. I have a Brendan Gallagher jersey, who is one of the best players in my opinion, and I even make cookies of their jerseys. If that's not dedication I don't know what is.
I love hockey just as much as any guy out there, if not more. I love the actual game, I'll watch any teams play. The passion and drive these people have are ridiculous. It's something I hope to have in whatever career path I choose. No matter what happens I know I will always have hockey to cheer me up. That's why I love it so much. Hockey and the Montreal Canadiens will always be there for me.
