Hockey, like any sport, has the power to conjure up nasty rivalries that inspire a special type of hatred amongst certain fans, or at the very least, a sense of bitter resentment. For Vancouverites, the simple mentioning of the Boston Bruins since 2011 brings back memories that hit painfully deep for some.
But hockey, as some of us struggle to realize, is not real life. When events such as that which took place adjacent to the finish line of the Boston Marathon, everything is put aside. In sports, these moments are when we see the true compassion of fans, and athletes, and the consideration for our friends across the world in a state of struggle.
Roberto Luongo tweeted today just before the puck drop between the Boston Bruins and the Buffalo Sabres this message, that should resonate with sports fans everywhere.
For tonight and tonight only I am a Boston Bruins fan
—Strombone (@strombone1) April 17, 2013
In addition to the message by Roberto Luongo, fans and media around the continent have shown their support for the City of Boston and its citizens.
The Chicago Tribune sports section paid tribute to Boston’s sport franchises showing solidarity with the teams and their fans.
And finally, the video you can’t miss: A tribute by the Bruin’s organization, and the chilling national anthem delivered by Rene Rancourt at the first major sports event held in the city since Monday’s bombing.
#BostonStrong
Vyas Saran is the Canucks Columnist for Vancity Buzz, and he can be followed on Twitter via @vyassaran
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