By Anna Corbett-Neal, Co-Editor-In-Chief
I am often referred to as a hockey aficionado by friends, family and even my doctors. I have a high hockey IQ and love for the game that most would call an obsession.
My newest obsession has come in the form of a TV show called “Heated Rivalry.”
I am an avid reader, and when literature and hockey mix, I am completely hooked. Rachel Reid wrote the series “Game Changers,” which highlights LGBTQ+ athletes and explores the way fame can change the way they live their lives romantically and socially. Although I have not read the book series, it is highly regarded in the hockey romance genre.
“Heated Rivalry” exploded in popularity after HBO Max released a Canadian-made, six-episode series based on the second of six “Game Changers” books. The episodes began airing at the end of November and ended in early January.
I had heard that there was a new show that involved hockey and romance, so I decided to give it a chance. I was especially interested once I learned that the show had been directed by Jacob Tierney, who is most known for his work on “Letterkenny” and “Shorsey,” both of which are Canadian shows that revolve around hockey.
I was hooked after the first episode. Despite its explicit content, “Heated Rivalry” shows the struggles of being in the spotlight while hiding the deepest parts of yourself. It does an excellent job of conveying fear, grief and love.
The hockey world has given the show mixed reviews and has lots of opinions on the effect on the culture as a whole. Many teams have leaned into the show's popularity, even hosting theme nights that include songs and clips from the show. Others have been vocal about their belief that the show has attracted fans who aren't as interested in the sport as they are in the relationships it portrays.
I feel as though “Heated Rivalry” has done amazing things for the hockey community, no matter the opinion of established fans. It has brought attention and interest to a sport that I love dearly and want to share with others.
Hockey is for everyone, regardless of orientation, and this show has opened up space for those who may not feel like they fit in with the typical fan base. Frustration with the show and its popularity is bound to happen among hardcore hockey fans, as it would within other sports. But hockey is traditionally a sport that is known for its low tolerance of any deviations from the norm, so ”Heated Rivalry” may be a great thing for teams to lean into.
Photo: Courtesy, HBO
