Table of Contents
Community gatherings celebrate hockey pride
As the Edmonton Oilers make their mark in the Stanley Cup finals, the excitement has transcended borders, reaching the Toronto suburb of Newmarket. This year, the temporary renaming of Riverwalk Commons to “Connor McDavid Square” has become a symbol of community spirit and support for the local hockey hero.
Mayor John Taylor expressed the joy of residents, stating, “People love it, they love the idea.” The outdoor viewing parties have drawn crowds, allowing fans to gather under the sun, united by their love for the game and their admiration for McDavid.
Shifting loyalties in the heart of Leafs territory
Newmarket, a town traditionally known for its allegiance to the Toronto Maple Leafs, has seen a remarkable shift in loyalties as the Oilers advance in the playoffs. Many fans have swapped their blue and white jerseys for the vibrant orange and blue of the Oilers, showcasing their support for McDavid and his team.
Local resident Maryann Patterson noted, “The Leafs are gone. All the other Canadian teams are finished. So let’s support Edmonton.” This shift highlights the unifying power of sports, as fans rally together to cheer for a Canadian team with hopes of breaking a 32-year Stanley Cup drought.
Connor McDavid: A local hero
Connor McDavid’s connection to Newmarket runs deep. The 28-year-old center, who has spent his entire NHL career with the Oilers since being drafted first overall in 2015, often trains in the area during the off-season.
His presence at local restaurants and community events has endeared him to residents, who view him not just as a star athlete but as a role model. With three league MVP awards under his belt and a remarkable record of 100 points in the past season, McDavid’s dedication to the sport and his community is evident.
As Patterson remarked, “Everybody wants Connor McDavid and his team to win this year. It’s their turn.”
Hope for a championship
The Oilers’ journey in the playoffs has ignited a sense of hope among fans, particularly after last year’s heartbreaking Game 7 loss. With the series now shifting to Florida, the stakes are high. The community’s collective energy is palpable, as they gather to support their team. Mayor Taylor emphasized the importance of this moment, stating, “To have this to rally around right now is what we need, to positively cheer together as one country.” A victory for the Oilers would not only be a triumph for the team but also a significant moment for Newmarket, as they celebrate their local hero and the spirit of Canadian hockey.
