The sport of hockey has, for one reason or another, become an integral part of the Canadian identity. It is a cultural myth that Canadians are born with hockey sticks in their hands and a couple missing teeth. In fact, in 1994, hockey along with lacrosse was named the national sport of Canada. So it is no surprise that when the 1972 Summit Series between the USSR and Canada was set to be played, national identity was on the line. Therefore, this essay is going to analyze the iconic image that sums up the series and all the trials and tribulations that are associated with it- Paul Henderson’s game-winning goal in the 8th and final game of the series. Called “the goal that everyone remembers,” by The Tragically Hip in their song entitled Fireworks,
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However, there are a couple reasons why hockey resonates with what Canadians believe are some of the best aspects of their culture. “There is a “subculture” to ice hockey that is different than the “culture” of other sports. Rooted in the early Canadian pioneering spirit - being obsessively competitive was often seen as necessary to thrive and survive. Being tough, persistent, and being able to defend one’s self was seen as essential.” (Botterill, 2004) This tough, grittiness is also complimented by characteristics such as humility and respect (2004); all aspects that Canadians identify are characteristics of their culture at a macro level. Tying this to the Canada- USSR games, the series put the identity of Canadians on trial as the games were coined as a test for who was the best in the world. “Official talks ensued: a ‘best versus best’ series of ‘friendly matches,’ four in each country. No cup was at stake- just global supremacy.” (Globeandmail.com) Prior to the event, Canada had abstained from bringing a team to the Winter Olympics as there was a rule against ‘professional’ players being allowed to attend. As such they felt they would never field a team worthy of their true potential. The Russians were the 9 time consecutive world champions at the time in ‘amateur’ competition. The summit series presented the solution to the debate. The image of Paul Henderson’s goal particularly the exhaustion in his face, therefore, showcases that the attributes of grit, and determination in Canadian culture can succeed over any challenge; which is why hockey remains such an important aspect of our everyday lives today. Moving forward, the series also represented an important takeaway that a reinvention of the sport, and identity, was
However, there are a couple reasons why hockey resonates with what Canadians believe are some of the best aspects of their culture. “There is a “subculture” to ice hockey that is different than the “culture” of other sports. Rooted in the early Canadian pioneering spirit - being obsessively competitive was often seen as necessary to thrive and survive. Being tough, persistent, and being able to defend one’s self was seen as essential.” (Botterill, 2004) This tough, grittiness is also complimented by characteristics such as humility and respect (2004); all aspects that Canadians identify are characteristics of their culture at a macro level. Tying this to the Canada- USSR games, the series put the identity of Canadians on trial as the games were coined as a test for who was the best in the world. “Official talks ensued: a ‘best versus best’ series of ‘friendly matches,’ four in each country. No cup was at stake- just global supremacy.” (Globeandmail.com) Prior to the event, Canada had abstained from bringing a team to the Winter Olympics as there was a rule against ‘professional’ players being allowed to attend. As such they felt they would never field a team worthy of their true potential. The Russians were the 9 time consecutive world champions at the time in ‘amateur’ competition. The summit series presented the solution to the debate. The image of Paul Henderson’s goal particularly the exhaustion in his face, therefore, showcases that the attributes of grit, and determination in Canadian culture can succeed over any challenge; which is why hockey remains such an important aspect of our everyday lives today. Moving forward, the series also represented an important takeaway that a reinvention of the sport, and identity, was