As sports fans, we’ve all been there — ready to sit down, cold drink in hand, snacks at the ready… only to realize the game isn’t on any channel you have. Or worse, you didn’t even know it was happening until the next day when highlights are all over social media.
That’s the fan struggle in 2025 — it’s not just about cheering for your team anymore, it’s about trying to figure out how to actually watch them.
Too Many Leagues, Too Many Streams
Remember when you could flip on the TV, hit CBC, TSN, or ESPN, and you were good to go? Now, you practically need a spreadsheet to keep track of streaming services. One night it’s on Game+, the next it’s buried on a subscription app you didn’t know existed.
As a fan, it feels like the games are moving further away from us — unless you’re willing to pay for five different subscriptions just to follow your favorite team.
Missing the Moments That Matter
Nothing hurts more than waking up to realize you missed a classic. That OT winner, that huge CFL play, or that one NHL goalie standing on his head. Sports are about the moments — and if you don’t see them live, they lose some of the magic.
We live for those goosebumps, those high-fives, those shared experiences. When the broadcast isn’t accessible, the fan experience suffers.
The Beauty of Being a Fan Anyway
Still, we adapt. We’ll find streams, hit Twitter highlights, or tune into post-game shows to feel like we’re part of the action. Because that’s what being a fan is all about — no matter the barriers, we keep coming back.
At the end of the day, sports connect us. Even if we didn’t catch every game, we share the stories, the debates, and the passion. That’s why I’ll always keep hunting down the games — because being a fan isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
Until next time,
Gunny
