Many of the neighborhood eateries and bars in Medicine Hat have seen an increase in business and foot traffic as a result of the Edmonton Oilers’ postseason success.
One of the city’s oldest sports pubs, Scoreboard Sports Lounge will celebrate 30 years in operation next year. Owner Mark Harty, an avid Oilers supporter, has taken pleasure in the team’s postseason success.
According to Harty, “it’s been amazing in fact, and it’s evident that the farther they go, the more people want to come out because they didn’t think it was really going to happen.”
“Canadian teams aren’t in there very often that advance to the finals, and they overcame a significant deficit to win tonight,” he continued.
“Even though it’s my team, I’m rooting even harder for them because it could be any Canadian team in there.”
Ashley Boles, an Oilers fan and co-owner of The North Sports Bar and Grill in Crescent Heights, has faith in her group.
Boles said, “It’s been so exciting in here.”
She went on, “Everyone is so excited for them to bring the cup back.”
A reverse sweep hasn’t occurred in around 81 years. Even if you’re not an Oilers fan, I believe that everyone is really looking forward to it.
Yes, another Oilers fan, Craig Van Maarion, co-owner of Dayz Off Pub, mentioned that business has been busy.
“Well, a packed house is what we anticipate. We’ll probably fill up because we’re now approximately three quarters full, according to Van Maarion.
“Everyone involved will have a great time, and there will be lots of cheering and a great fun atmosphere,” he continued.
“Perhaps the Oilers can return the Cup to Canada.” Everyone comes out to have a good time and cheers, and it’s fantastic for business for all the sports bars.
Harty has seen similar things with The Scoreboard.
“We’re receiving a lot of calls.We must set aside a large number of tables. We were full in there on Tuesday, which is one of the slowest evenings of the week. People are coming out, which is something we didn’t anticipate,” Harty remarked.
“Friday was fantastic, particularly in the summers. Many people are busy with graduations and other events, but it’s drawing people out.
Although he may not be as devoted to the Oilers as the other bar owners we spoke with, Rob Taylor, the owner of the Mainliner Pub, has supported the team during their current run.
“I’m from Ontario, so I’ve always supported Toronto, but I still support the Oilers,” Taylor remarked.
“Hopefully people get out, support local and get out there and have some fun with your friends and, and whatnot and cheer on the Oilers.”
Boles has noticed even non-hockey fans getting into the games.
“People are just incredibly excited,” stated Bowles.
“Even if you’re not a hockey fan, people still enjoy themselves because of the lively atmosphere.” The number of visitors has significantly increased.
Harty said there’s a terrific vibe in the bar during games, and it’s great to see so many people there supporting the team he likes.
Harty remarked, “It means everything, especially if you can’t even be at the game.”
You get the impression that you are at the game thanks to the atmosphere there. Everyone is cheering, and the noise level makes it seem like you’re at a real hockey game.
Monday night, wherever you are viewing the game.
There is going to be a lot of people eager to see if the Oilers can bring the cup back to Canada for the first time since the Montreal Canadiens won in 1993.
Three years earlier in 1990 the Oilers hoisted their last championship.
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