I have a confession. Some of my closest friends and family members already know this, but it will shock some people; it will definitely surprise some girls I’ve dated, and some friends with whom I’ve shared intense moments drinking beer will have to rethink how I actually felt during those moments.
I hate hockey.
I know. As a Canadian, it seems like there is only a small community of us. But what is the draw? Really. I don’t get it.
As a hardcore fan of a hockey team, you look to me like a hardcore fan of Nike, or Apple, or any other brand – because that’s what hockey teams are. They’re brands. In fact, they’re not even as consistent as regular brands, because they have no mission statement or purpose, and their lineups change every year. The Calgary Flames of 2000 are mutually exclusive with the Calgary Flames of 2012. So loving the Flames, or saying the Canucks are a bunch of goons and always have been, or paying $1,200 for nosebleed seats in a playoff game does not, and will never, make any sense to me.
This is not to say anything about hockey itself. I’m cool with that – sports and whatnot.
Jimmy Thomson 
You’re absolutely right. Paying big bucks to attend a hockey game is irrational. Same with attending a rock concert — it’s more comfortable, much cheaper, with better sound etc. if you watch or listen at home.
Untrue!
Hahhah!! Smartest thing I’ve read all day. You do, however, seem to be implyIng that there is meaning to be found in other social constructs?
For sure. What I’m implying is that the sport itself is a worthy pursuit, but the passion people have for their teams is beyond me. Hockey teams are ephemeral; they change year to year and are unrecognizable after a decade – so by supporting “your team” for your whole life, or worse, “your dad’s team,” you’re actually supporting a brand with no common denominator from one age to the next.
Other social constructs more worthy of your energy and passion are pretty much everywhere, including within hockey itself. Love hockey? Go coach it. Go play it. Love something that can do something for you.
You’re logic is sound but finding meaning in life is not logical. I can’t stand sitting through a hockey game but I’ll go with my father to spend time with him, which is something I like. I’m sure many kids/young adults love hockey because it’s the only connection to their father/friends they have and they in turn find meaning in this.
Unfortunately, anything can be commoditized And today everything is, but the idea of watching the best (insert any sport) in the world I still the same attraction it always has been. In terms of hockey in Canada, the best players are mostly home town boys many of us have connections and stories about. Having your “team” is not logical but another way to find meaning, make connections, and feel like you’re part of something.
I’m with you, I’d much rather do than spectate. I derive great pleasure from these choices and I find it makes my life meaningful. But just because you choose to watch doesn’t mean the pleasure or meaning is any less significant.