Unyielding politeness. In some parts of the world it’s not very easy to get an apology, but in Canada. The Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs are still the country’s most popular hockey teams, neck and neck for first place and miles ahead of the other five Canadian-based NHL franchises.

Ice hockey is a big, big deal in Canada. Though it is one of two national games (the other being Lacrosse), hockey is dominant – the most popular spectator sport, as well as one that Canada is world-renowned for. From Olympic success to the crossover appeal of such ice hockey luminaries as Wayne Gretzky, the sport is a big part of Canadian culture and national identity.

The supporters across the country are fiercely loyal and partisan, closely following the sport whether they watch the games in the arenas, in the bars or at home. Many fans of hockey (and casual observers) like to place bets on the NHL and CHL games, and it has never been easier to do so. With the online gambling market booming, and with no sign of slowing down, let’s look at why betting on hockey is more popular than ever.

• In 2004 a poll was taken in Canada to find the 10 greatest Canadians of all time, millions of Canadians chose two hockey players within their list - Wayne Gretzky and Don Cherry. Furthermore, having a hockey scene on the back of the Canadian five dollar note is just another example of how close to their hearts this sport really is.
• Why is hockey so popular in Canada? First and foremost, climate. As a country with blistering cold winters, it's easy to play outdoors, which makes it more affordable than in many other parts of the world, especially most of the US (not including many northern states). It's also what contributes to Sweden & Russia being top hockey nations.
• Canada's ambitious goal is to top the medals table at the Vancouver Winter Olympics but it will be a hollow achievement to much of the Great White North unless the men's hockey gold is among the.

A Brief History

Hockey was first played in Canada way back in 1862. The iconic Stanley Cup was inaugurated in 1893. Canada dominated early international hockey, but by 1950 the Soviet Union had begun to emerge as a serious rival, culminating in the 1972 Summit Series, eight matches played in Canada and Moscow. The Canadians won that series, but the two nations would continue their closely matched rivalry for years to come. The formation of the National Hockey League (NHL) led to the emergence of superstar players and huge franchises within the sport. Ice Hockey is also played by millions of Canadians all across the nation, on the grassroots level. And of course, they place bets on the pro games.

It’s Easy to Bet

Part of the reason betting on hockey is so popular is because it has become so easy to do. Countless online websites and sportsbooks are available and are ranked, rated and listed on sites such as SuperLenny which act as a one-stop-shop for betting hockey fans. The ubiquity of smartphones and tablets has led to dedicated apps being developed for the sole purpose of betting on hockey (and other sports). Mobile apps lead the way and have led to casual fans placing bets alongside seasoned supporters.

Bonuses

Most Canadian sportsbooks offer bonuses and prizes for new members who sign up. Some punters go from site to site, taking advantage of the special offers on each, whereas others find a site they like and place bets regularly, which also leads to loyalty bonuses. Many sites offer deposit matches or money-back guarantees, and for the regulars, weekly or monthly reload bonuses.

Betting Options

As with many other live sports, hockey betting offers a range of options and possibilities. You might gamble on the final score or the score of each period. Puck line, regulation time, winning margin, these are but a few of the wagers available for hockey fans in Canada. This variety adds a new dimension for those placing bets on the game. And while most fans gamble on the NHL, international games are available too.

Unpredictability

For gamblers and regular spectators, part of hockey’s enduring appeal is just how unpredictable the games can be. Fast-paced and physical, players are prone to injury or being put in the sin bin for fouling or fighting. This means that star players may be sidelined, and that underdog victories are often in the script. As well as adding excitement to the game, it also means that punters have a chance of going home with a big win.

Ice hockey is more than a sport in Canada. A thrilling, intense game, where anything can happen, it hardly needs to be livened up, but placing bets can do just that.

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This fast paced sport consists of two teams on skates, players are armed with sticks where the objective is to shoot the rubber “puck” into the opposing team’s net. From frozen-over ponds and community rinks, to the top arenas, you will find Canadians playing hockey. Not only are Canadians practising everywhere, but you will find all ages and levels participating - from children who can barely walk to those in the National Hockey League (NHL).

This game is so entwined with the country, that the Canadian logo of the maple leaf is printed on many hockey shirts. The Canadian hockey identity goes as far as education! In the University of Saskatchewan there is a course offered on “Hockey in Canadian Literature”.

Why Is Ice Hockey Popular In Canada

The exact origin of ice hockey is unknown, however the game was developed in 1875 by a Canadian, J.G.A Creighton. The first game played under these modern rules, formed by Creighton, took place in Montreal. Although an iconically male sport, it continues to evolve alongside Canada, whereby women have gradually become more and more involved in the national sport. In the 2002 Winter Olympics, over 6 million Canadians watched their women’s team take the gold medal; just three days later 10 million watched the men’s team achieve the gold medal as well.

In 2004 a poll was taken in Canada to find the 10 greatest Canadians of all time, millions of Canadians chose two hockey players within their list - Wayne Gretzky and Don Cherry. Furthermore, having a hockey scene on the back of the Canadian five dollar note is just another example of how close to their hearts this sport really is.

Why Is Hockey So Popular In Canada

Some Canadians who feel strongly about the sport, believe that hockey has huge impacts on Canada, so much so that it defines it. There have been books written on the influence and connection between hockey and Canada, such as Jim Prime’s book, How Hockey Explains Canada: The Sport That Defines a Country.

Why Is Canada Known For Hockey

Needless to say that Canada created, embraced and continues to adore ice hockey. In a country which is divided by languages and political views, hockey is seen as a unifying force, forming a great part of Canadian cultural identity.