It was hard to watch. And we don’t mean the 4-0 loss the Canucks suffered to blow an opportunity to become Stanley Cup champions.
The aftermath on the streets of Vancouver last Wednesday night — though it should not have surprised anybody — was certainly a low point in this province’s history. A night when morons took over the streets to cause mayhem. An insight into just how stupid humans can be.
The after aftermath is almost as silly. The finger pointing, teary regrets and apologies, vigilantism and strong words from authorities has seemed to compound the foolishness.
Many claim these were not hockey fans. Yet most of the ridiculous rabble rousers caught in the moment were decked out in full Canuck gear. These were hockey fans, but even the best fans seem prone to idiocy.
The prognostication, pontification and investigation will continue. The fools who looted, destroyed and beat their fellow fans will be rounded up (the fact these dummies figured they could get away with these actions in this digital world is almost as sad as the actual acts they committed). Their punishments will not fit the crimes. There will be reports, reviews and recommendations, none of which will be able to totally prevent such a riot from happening in the future.
The black eye will heal and British Columbians will soon move on. What shouldn’t linger is any permanent scar to the Vancouver Canucks or the game of hockey.
This spring was a magical one for this province. Though it ultimately didn’t end like most would have wanted, the game did bring people together and bolster our spirit (and economy). It made us believe in childhood dreams and created lasting hockey lore.
The storm of negativity will soon give way to fond memories. We should always remember what stupidity can spawn, but ultimately hang onto the fact that these moments are thankfully rare.
— Nelson Star