Editor's note: this commentary was written by Chantel Colleypriest, a third year arts student at the University of British Columbia and contributor to the sports section of the student run newspaper, The Ubyssey. Born and raised in Gibsons and a Vancouver Canucks fan, she is studying writing with plans to apply to UBC's graduate program in journalism in hopes of pursuing a career in sports journalism.
So you've decided to become a Canucks fan, most likely because you've experienced the growing rate of excitement throughout B.C. as the team continues their 2011 playoff run. Whatever the reason may be, you're trying to avoid the 'bandwagon' label and blend in with the die-hard Canucks fans surrounding you.
So here's what you need to know:
Although Canucks fans are criticized for being fickle due to their constant expectation of being let down by their boys, it is not without good reason. In the past 41 years since the team was established, the Canucks have failed to bring home a Stanley Cup, although they did come close in 1994, losing in game seven of the finals to the New York Rangers. Don't mention this to fans, though; they are more than willing to forgive their team's faults in the spirit of true dedication.
Goalie Roberto Luongo is possibly the most discussed and criticized player on the Canucks roster. He is known for his incredible saves (which are followed with a chorus of "Louuu" from the crowd); however, he is also notorious for allowing his shaky nerves to affect his game, causing rookie mistakes.
Forward Ryan Kesler is this playoff run's hero, earning the nickname "SuperKes" - affectionately stemming from the tattoo on his arm. If any player can win a game for us, it'll be SuperKes to the rescue.
The Sedins - Daniel and Henrik - are the inseparable Swedish twins who've both won the Art Ross Trophy (for the most regular season points) consecutively. Unfortunately, they are not as physical as many North American players, which has cost them points in this playoff run, much to the dismay of fans hoping they would defend their trophy titles.
Alex Burrows was the fan favourite at the end of the first round when he scored the only two goals, one of which was in overtime, in game seven against the Chicago Blackhawks - a grudge match that was won for the first time in three years of playoff match-ups.
Canucks and fans are currently facing two battles in this playoff run: one is round three against the San Jose Sharks, and the other is against the NHL to keep the Green Men - unmistakably entertaining fans located next to the penalty box and often seen taunting opposing teams' players. At the moment, the NHL has banned them from touching the glass and doing handstands, although alarming threats of further bans linger.
I could continue to discuss the idiosyncrasies of the Vancouver Canucks, but instead I will suggest that you make your way to the nearest watering hole and take in the atmosphere during a game - because history will be made.
