As the Edmonton Oilers continue their quest for the Stanley Cup, residents of Newmarket are rallying behind their team in a big way. The Riverwalk Commons area has been temporarily renamed to coincide with the NHL championship series, and fans are donning Edmonton jerseys to show their support.
Last year’s viewing parties were a huge hit with locals and fans of Connor McDavid, and this spring is no exception. According to Mayor John Taylor, the events have been well-received by the community.
"People love it," he said. "They love the idea, they love coming down and sitting together in beautiful weather and watching Connor McDavid on a giant outdoor screen."
Taylor added that these events are bringing people together.
"It’s just a great atmosphere," he said. "People from all walks of life come out here to watch hockey together."
Many residents have put aside their usual team colors for Edmonton’s orange and blue or red and white Canada uniforms featuring No. 97 on the back. Maryann Patterson was among those sporting a 4 Nations Face-Off Canada jersey before Game 3 began Monday afternoon.
"It’s great to come out and support both my community and support my country at the same time cheering on Canada!" Patterson exclaimed.
When asked why she chose to support the Oilers, Patterson replied simply:
"Why not? The Leafs are gone."
She also expressed her admiration for Connor McDavid:
"’I think everybody knows who he is; everybody wants to support him; and everybody wants Connor McDavid and his team to win this year,’ I believe is what most people would say."
The viewing parties have become an annual tradition in Newmarket during playoff season but gained new significance last year when local resident Chris Krywulycz organized an event that drew hundreds of fans from across York Region.
"We had over 500 people here last year," Krywulycz said Monday as Game 3 began against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Krywulycz credits social media with helping spread the word about this week’s event, which will be held every day until May if necessary.
"I’ve got over two thousand likes so far,” Krywulycz said. “And we’re getting more every day."
Organizers expect thousands more will join them throughout the playoffs as long as there aren’t any conflicts with other large events scheduled at nearby parks or venues. For now, though, it seems like everyone can agree on one thing – supporting Team Canada through its star player Connor McDavid has brought everyone closer together than ever before!
Related News
- Fans can catch all games live at Riverwalk Commons starting tomorrow morning at sunrise until puck drop (usually around noon), unless otherwise stated by organizers due to schedule changes. Please follow along on social media accounts for updates.
- If you’d like to learn more about upcoming events happening throughout the playoffs, stay tuned to our website where we’ll post details soon.
- Don’t forget to share your photos using the hashtag #OilersNation so we can see how much fun you’re having supporting Team Canada!
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