Hockey has long been the undisputed king of sports in Canada. So it is purely entertainment and pressingly connected with the national spirit and traditions to a certain extent. From childhood pickup games on frozen ponds to the electrifying moments of the Stanley Cup finals, hockey has shaped Canadian identity.
Since other popular sports in Canada such as soccer, basketball, and so on are being played in Canada, many have now begun to question whether hockey is at risk for the loss of dominance. Well, let’s have a more detailed look at what is the most popular sport in Canada and whether hockey is still at the top of its game in today’s Canada.
What is the Most Popular Sport in Canada?
Hockey has always been widely regarded as the most popular sport in Canada, yet, this context is relatively diverse. Canadians are embracing a variety of sports, and the following are currently among the most popular sports in Canada:
- Hockey: Hockey remains the most popular sport in Canada. There are many talented Canadian NHL players and the country’s love for the game remains strong, especially during major events like the Stanley Cup playoffs and the Winter Olympics.
- Soccer: Soccer has also developed a tremendous following over the last few years, especially with the youth of Canada. Youth soccer league enrolment is increasing rapidly to the point where soccer is the most popular sport among children in Canada.
- Basketball: Basketball has grown massively in popularity and has especially shot to fame after the Toronto Raptors won the NBA Championship in 2019.
- Baseball: While not as popular or culturally significant in Canada as let’s say… hockey it does have its presence with Toronto and Montreal having baseball teams for several years now.
- Football (Canadian and American): The CFL ( Canadian Football League) with a strong fan base of its own, and the NFL are also quite popular in this country and people enjoy this kind of sport in Canada as it has evolved to be one of the favorite sports in the country.
Growing Popularity of Soccer and Basketball
Soccer and basketball are on the rise and majorly contributed by the youth. Today there are large communities of soccer in big cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Also, basketball is on the rise in the amateur and professional leagues. A survey conducted by Solutions Research Group in 2020 shows that basketball has experienced a 15% uptick in popularity, becoming one of Canada’s most rapidly growing sports.
While soccer and basketball are gaining ground, is hockey the most popular sport in Canada? It remains so. Nevertheless, the growth rate of soccer and basketball shows they can soon overtake hockey as Canada’s most popular sport. Until recently, no sport could overshadow the patriotism felt for hockey.
Is Hockey the Most Popular Sport in Canada?
Are people more into hockey in Canada than any other sport? Yes, but it is slowly shifting. While soccer and basketball have seen significant growth, hockey continues to reign supreme. A survey published by Statista showed that 40% of people in Canada preferred watching hockey over any other sport, with soccer and basketball trailing behind at 17% and 11%, respectively.
One can say that there is another undeniable rule: hockey dominates not only by statistics but also by becoming a part of a modern Canadian identity. Historically memorable moments include the 1972 Summit Series between Canada and Russia, the Wayne Gretzky ‘NHL dynastic years, and Canada’s Gold medal victories in the Olympics. Many Canadians grow up skating on frozen ponds, playing street hockey, and cheering for their favorite Canadian hockey players.
Fun Facts About Hockey
- Wayne Gretzky’s Unbreakable Records: Gretzky, deemed “The Great One,” has scored the most goals in the NHL: 894 and earned the most points in a season:215. His records are so far ahead that many believe they will never be broken.
- The Longest NHL Game: The longest NHL game ever was between Detroit Red Wings and Montreal which was played in 1936, the game totaled 176 minutes and 30 seconds before a goal was scored in the sixth overtime.
- The Fastest Hat-Trick: The fastest hat-trick recorded in the history of the NHL was set by Bill Mosienke in 1952. netting three goals in just 21 seconds. This fun fact about hockey has yet to be matched.
It’s no surprise that many top Canadian NHL players have made headlines for their big wins both on the ice and off. A few have been involved in other undertakings including Gretzky, who has engaged in casino events highlighting how the best Canadian hockey players blend their fame into various entertainment spheres from online baccarat to other high-stakes games.
Best Canadian Hockey Players of All Time
Many of the world’s best-known hockey players were born and raised in Canada. Here are five of the best Canadian hockey players of all time, alongside their key statistics and achievements:
- Wayne Gretzky: 894 goals, 3,239 points, 4-time Stanley Cup champion, 9-time Hart Trophy winner (MVP). Widely considered the best Canadian hockey player.
- Mario Lemieux: 690 goals, 1,723 points, 2-time Stanley Cup champion, 3-time Hart Trophy winner.
- Bobby Orr: 270 goals, 915 points, 2-time Stanley Cup champion, 8-time Norris Trophy winner (best defenseman).
- Gordie Howe: 801 goals, 1,850 points, 4-time Stanley Cup champion, 6-time Hart Trophy winner. A true legend among the best Canadian NHL players.
- Patrick Roy: 551 career wins (goalie), 4-time Stanley Cup champion, 3-time Conn Smythe Trophy winner (playoff MVP).
Current Canadian Hockey Stars
Canada now has the next generation of stars who are keeping the country’s rich hockey tradition alive. Here are some of the current Canadian hockey players:
- Connor McDavid: Currently acknowledged as the most skilled player in the NHL, McDavid has three Hart Trophy wins and has been a points leader several times. He is among the top Canadian hockey players.
- Sidney Crosby: Sidney Crosby is among the best Canadian hockey players who have ever played the game with three Stanley Cups and two Olympic gold medals.
- Nathan MacKinnon: He’s one of the most famous hockey players Canada NHL now, and after winning the Stanley Cup, the sky seems to be the limit for MacKinnon.
- Carey Price: Known for his incredible goaltending, Price has won the Vezina Trophy and led the Montreal Canadiens to deep playoff runs.
- Brad Marchand: Marchand is a Stanley Cup champion as well as an important member of the Boston Bruins; this skilled scorer is also one of the most tenacious players.
Conclusion
Hockey remains the most popular sport in Canada but other sports are rising in popularity at a very fast rate. Soccer and basketball are steadily gaining popularity and are widespread among young people, while, nonetheless, being unable to overshadow the invaluable historical component that hypes hockey like no other sport in Canada.
As we move into the future, it will be fascinating to see whether soccer or basketball can eventually challenge the long-standing dominance of top Canadian hockey players and the sport of hockey itself. But for now, as it seems the most famous sport in Canada is hockey.