I'm sure the National Hockey League has lost some fans. There was a period before the last lockout where I wasn't much of a fan anymore. The game that is played on ice had become slow and plodding. Then it again became entertaining and fans flocked to it.
A lot of people are saying that the fans should just walk away. If you want to go ahead. Professional sports produce a product. If you don't like it then don't consume it. However, as an entity professional sports teams create a sense of identity. They bring people together. They are a uniting force.
When you see someone wearing gear from your favourite team, especially if you are not in that team's city, you feel a bond. You come together to cheer. You form alliances and have debates all about why you do or don't like a team or player. It is unscripted human drama.
Most of all, being the fan of professional sports is fun. It's an escape from the drudgery of daily life. It's a fantasy that we can believe in and be a part of. It is a coming together of humanity for the collective experience. It's an ice-breaker.
There are few things more fun than being in a city during a long play-off run. It brings a sense of optimism and hope. It gets people excited.
If you don't ever watch another NHL game in your life that's your choice but I will. Go Jets Go!
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