May 7/10: Hockey Fever

May 7/10: Hockey Fever, originally uploaded by susanvg.

Montreal is a hockey city and though our fans are ardent, I think many are delightfully surprised at how well the "Habs" are doing in the playoffs. I was near the Bell Centre where there are large statues of some of our best known players of the past. This is Guy Lafleur's foot!

The series with the Penguins is now down to a best of 3. The man who has really made the difference for the Canadiens has been Halak. His steady nerves and fast reflexes have kept many a shot from entering the net. So tonight many Montrealers will be glued to the televisions, at homes and in bars throughout the city. Can the team get to the next level? Go Habs Go!!!

Day 331: The Rocket

Day 331: The Rocket, originally uploaded by susanvg.

After a concert we walked to the metro. It was the first time I walked through the plaza near the Bell Centre since the 100 year celebrations for Les Canadiens. I came upon this sculpture on Maurice Richard, a Montreal legend. He was larger than life in my childhood - the player who more than any other epitomized hockey in our city. Even though I was quite young when he retired from hockey, his name was always said with awe.

A few years ago I saw the film made about him, The Rocket, and was once again struck by the struggle he had to be valued as a player and as a French Canadian. It is a far cry from there to our overpaid athletes of today. I am glad to see him honoured here.

Day 161: Canadiens Fan

Day 161: Canadiens Fan, originally uploaded by susanvg.

I went to a movie this evening in what used to be the Montreal Forum, home of Les Canadiens. The building was gutted and turned into a multiplex movie theatre. A few remnants of the old building were placed in it as a reminder of its former purpose. These seats used to be filled with avid fans, rooting for their team. This sculpture is reminiscent of this.

It saddens me to see the graffiti scribbled on it. There is no respect for the artist nor for the public who enjoy it. I have often seen people having their pictures taken sitting beside the sculpture. Now the face looks garish, the hands out of place. What was once a playful reminder of the past is now a testimony to the needs of the individual to satisfy him/herself without thought to the effect on others.

Day 105: Les Canadiens

Day 105: Les Canadiens, originally uploaded by susanvg.

Hope springs eternal. Montreal is a hockey town. Now it is infected with playoff fever. Many cars sport the Canadiens flag, whipping in the wind.

I grew up with hockey - it's all that was on television on a winter Saturday night. We watched the grainy black and white images and rooted for our team. Back then there were only six teams, so rivalry was particularly intense. Tonight the playoffs start, with our beloved Habs playing one of the original six, the Bruins. Our team has injuries and is not playing from the strength of the glory days of the past - the players I remember - Jacques Plante in nets, Henri Richard, Jean Beliveau, Yvan Cournoyer. And of course, Toe Blake pacing behind the bench in his fedora.

I haven't really followed sports in many years, though my interest perks up as playoffs roll around. Now it is my children who hoop and holler and support the team. I haven't bought a flag for my car - but maybe I should for old time's sake.