EDITORIAL: The unifying power of sport

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These have been divisive times. Let’s face it.

The past year and a half has seen a lot of societal turmoil, as people respond to the pandemic, the U.S. election, and various culture wars.

It sometimes seems like we’re pulled further and further apart. It’s sad.

That’s why it’s been so great to watch people from all walks of life come together to share in the celebration of major sporting events.

Recently, Canadians have been glued to the NHL finals and then to the Italy vs. England Euro 2020 final.

Are there rivalries? Sure. But, by and large, it’s been a unifying time.

While we may root for different teams, the positive energy that comes with the love of the game is shared by all.

It’s a collective experience and an exhilarating one at that.

Major sporting events have also brought people together after a prolonged period of time where it was actually illegal for people to gather in groups.

The benefits have been two-fold.

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First, people have been brought back to the joy of group gatherings. While indoor dining wasn’t yet permitted in every province in Canada, people found a way to get together and watch the events unfold live on the big screen.

Then there’s the fact that watching large sporting events in other countries and jurisdictions gave people in Canada a sense that, yes, it was possible to do the same here.

A lot of Canadians called for sporting events to be allowed after watching large attendance spectator events unfold safely and merrily in the United States. Our neighbours to the border were trailblazers and showed us how it was done.

Then there’s the unfortunate fact that a lot of people have been cooped up indoors, inactive. The return of sports to our individual lives is so important. It’s about keeping active and staying fit and having fun.

Kudos to those provinces that have pretty much eliminated all restrictions when it comes to the enjoyment of sports — both to watch and as participants.

Those that are still dragging their feet on it need to pick up the pace. Especially when it comes to summer activities.

The summer can go by quickly in Canada and kids have a right to play.