I recently flew back to Montreal from a short stint in Mexico, only to exit the métro and immediately be greeted by STM buses flashing the iconic  “Go Habs Go!” slogan. It’s NHL playoff season in Montreal and my heart could burst!  

I’m a fair-weather hockey fan. I’ll catch the occasional game during regular season, but the minute the Canadiens make the playoffs you can’t pull me away from the screen.  

This city comes alive in a special way during playoff hockey. I love that the Habs’ long legacy, intertwined with Montreal’s French history, manages to unite and include us all regardless of language, politics or religion. Politicians could learn a lesson or two from our hockey club.

This sense of inclusion makes cheering for La Sainte-Flanelle an important marker of Montreal and Quebec identity. We’re not just simply rooting for a local sports team. It feels like we’re part of something bigger. 

 I watched Game 1 between Montreal and Tampa Bay in Playa del Carmen. ........

© Montreal Gazette