OK, With the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games underway I have been immersed in all of the cool sports and events not generally found on television. The spectacular opening ceremonies, alpine skiing, snowboarding and the fast and exciting luge events have been riveting me to my television every evening. Rooting for Canadian athletes I have been inspired by the stories of triumph and success that Olympic fever brings and felt the pride every time a Canadian stands on the podium.
But there is something that I have to get off my chest. It is a phenomenon that crops up whenever there is a big game or rivalry in the sports world. I have witnessed this during Stanley Cups and World Series involving hometown teams in Detroit. The fever pitch that the Olympic hockey tournament has generated with Team Canada has this term being bandied about once again and it drives me crazy. Now an entire country has jumped on the bandwagon with this.
Yes, it’s the “we” factor. You know, when people refer to their favourite team as “we”.
“We have a big game tonight” or “We played a strong game last night”. I don’t know about you but my contribution to most sporting events consist of snacking on the sofa while watching the truly talented to all of the hard work. “We” implies that somehow I am an integral part of the team. Maybe if I was at the event I could motivate them through my cheering or flag waving thereby affecting the outcome, but my contribution to the final score from home is assuredly insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
I understand that people just want something to grab on to and be a part of the excitement and the patriotism that Canada’s Olympic hockey team exudes is refreshing and welcome.
Referring to “we” in the context of Canada as a country competing in the Olympics makes sense as well because we are all Canadians. But make no mistake, last time I checked there was no Fairhurst on the starting roster for any major league sports team much less Canada’s Olympic Team. This should never stop anyone from watching and enjoying professional sports however. Heck, wear the colors, cheer loudly and wave the flags if it makes you feel good. Just take credit where its due.
I have to go now, we just scored again. Go Team Canada!
