Loyal to the oil – how religion and striking it rich shape Canada’s hockey fandom
Déjà vu is a common occurrence in the world of sports, and the Edmonton Oilers are no strangers to repeat matchups. The Canadian team faced off against the New York Islanders in both 1983 and ’84 for hockey’s biggest prize, the Stanley Cup. In this year’s National Hockey League finals, the Oilers will try to avenge their Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers in 2024.
Edmontonians who have been “loyal to the oil,” as fans say, have been waiting for redemption ever since. The Trump administration’s threats toward its northern neighbor has fueled a wave of nationalism, making even more fans eager for a Canadian team to win the Stanley Cup – which has not happened since 1993. With hopes pinned to Edmonton, the finals also brings renewed attention to some of Canada’s biggest exports: hockey and oil.
The Conversation / Cody Musselman, Judith Ellen Brunton
Different fans express their fandom in different ways - Sports and Entertainment: Key insights on fandom, betting, media, and more..
The ways we spend our free time are changing amidst generational shifts, technological innovation, and more. Read on for a closer look at Ipsos’ exclusive data on sports and entertainment.
IPOS
Fandom getting stronger in post-COVID sports world
The head oIn a recent study by Momentum, 73% of self-identified fans said their interest in sports increased over the past five years.
Sports Business Journal
The behavioural science behind sports fandom
Being a fan means being part of something bigger than yourself: being invested in history and hope; dedicating time, and energy.
Imagination
72% of women are ‘avid fans’ of at least one sport
Wasserman’s The Collective also finds that 34% of female sports fans want more brands involved in women’s sports.
Sports PRO
