So, you’re moving to Canada and you think you know all about Canadian sports? Think again. Canadians are obsessed with sports and have a unique set of athletic passions that you may not have heard of before. Don’t worry though, as a beginner, we’ve got you covered with this beginner’s guide to Canada’s basic sports obsessions.
You Know Nothing About Canadian Sports: Here’s What to Know
Ice Hockey
Let’s start with the most obvious one, ice hockey. Canadians live and breathe hockey, and it’s not just a sport, it’s a way of life. You’ll find kids playing ice hockey on frozen ponds in the winter, and adults playing in rec leagues all year round. The NHL, the biggest professional league in the world, has seven teams based in Canada. So, if you’re looking to make friends with Canadians, learn about hockey and cheer for their favorite team.
Curling
Yes, you read that right, curling. It may seem like an odd sport, but it’s hugely popular in Canada. Curling is a sport where players slide a polished granite stone on ice towards a target area while teammates sweep the ice in front of the stone to help it slide further. It’s a fun and social sport that’s often played in local clubs, and it’s even been called Canada’s "official winter sport." So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself cheering for a curling team during the Winter Olympics.
Lacrosse
Lacrosse is a sport with its roots in Indigenous communities in Canada, and it’s become a national obsession. It’s a fast-paced game that’s played with a small rubber ball and a long-handled stick. It’s often called "the fastest game on two feet" and it’s gaining popularity around the world. Canada has a professional lacrosse league, and the national team has won multiple world championships. So, if you’re looking to impress your Canadian friends, brush up on your knowledge of lacrosse.
So, there you have it, a beginner’s guide to Canada’s basic sports obsessions. From hockey to curling to lacrosse, Canada has a unique set of sports that are deeply rooted in the country’s culture. So, whether you’re a sports fan or not, it’s worth learning about these popular Canadian pastimes and maybe even trying them out yourself. And who knows, you may just become a Canadian sports fanatic too.