This Friday , I had the chance to watch the Vancouver Warriors play, but this time as a fan. You might be wondering what that means. Usually, when I attend Warriors games, I’m there in a professional capacity, helping out with their media coverage. I’m up high in the press box, taking in the action from a bird’s-eye view and focusing on the game in a more detached way.

But this week was much different. This time, I decided to experience the game the way fans do—sitting in the actual seats of Rogers Arena , immersed in the energy of the crowd. Now, don’t get it twisted—I’ve been in those seats before for concerts and other events likes a Canucks game, but I’d never actually watched a Warriors game this way. I’d never sat down with my friends and fully enjoyed the game from a fan’s perspective. Now a part of me missed the press box because I had about a 100 little kids screaming in my ear but hey, that’s the way things roll down there right.

So, I grabbed three of my best friends and planned a fun night out. It was so funny because, even though I was supposed to be in a non-work mindset, I couldn’t fully shake the professional headspace at first. I kept spotting people I knew from the press box. I even met up with my classmates who were working the game, which felt surreal. I finally got to dress down for once no professionalism needed.

Eventually, though, I got some mini donuts, settled into my seat, and finally let myself enjoy the fan experience. It was incredible. Sure, I missed the first quarter because some of us were running late, but we still made it in time to catch most of the action.

The Warriors were playing the Ottawa Bears, and it was an intense matchup. The Warriors were in top form that night, dominating the game. Aden Walsh, our goalie, was absolutely on fire. His saves were phenomenal, and the energy in the arena was electric. Adam Charalambides also had an amazing night, scoring some jaw-dropping goals.

One of the best parts of the evening was soaking in the fan interactions happening around us. It wasn’t just about the game—it was about the community vibe. The Warriors’ team does a fantastic job of creating interactive moments for fans. Walking around the concourse at Rogers Arena, we saw tons of fun activities designed to engage people, especially the younger fans.

One of my favourite things was a drawing competition where fans were tasked with sketching the Warriors logo. Then, they’d ask people passing by to vote on which drawing was more accurate. It was such a simple yet fun way to engage everyone, and it made the experience feel personal.

Another highlight was seeing the two young boys sitting in front of us, who were a part of a local lacrosse team got the chance to experience the game from another angle. Partway through the game, a Warriors representative approached them and invited them to sit by the glass for a better view. Watching their faces light up was such a beautiful reminder of what sports can do. Moments like that bring people together and create lasting memories.

This sense of community is something I’ve talked about a lot, but I’ll never get tired of it. Sports have this magical ability to unite people, whether it’s a small fan base or a massive one. At a Canucks game, for instance, the huge amount of fans makes for an incredible atmosphere, but it’s harder to create those intimate, one-on-one interactions. At a Canucks game at least what I noticed is that because it is of higher standings with it being the NHL the tone is still fun and special however there is a more emotional and serious feel to it.  At a Warriors game, the smaller crowd allows for a more personal touch, and that’s something truly special there is a lesser amount of pressure in a way and less daunting unless where down a point and we want to win the game however there is a more cozy feel to those games. I would compare it too, for example a Canucks game live at the Arena is like watching a sports game with with your entire family including your Uncles, Aunts, Grandparents etc. and your not sure who’s going to start up either a fight or fun conversation. Rather at a Warriors game it’s your in your own home your with your immediate family or surrounded by friends. There’s is less pressure in the room is what I am trying to get at.

It’s also a testament to how smart the Warriors’ marketing team is. They’ve found ways to engage fans in a meaningful way, making the experience more than just about the game—it’s about building a community.

As for my friends, they had a blast. Two of them had never seen a lacrosse game before, and watching their reactions was hilarious. My friend Savannah got really into it, chanting for fights to break out on the field and cheering like a seasoned fan. On the other hand, my friend Johnny was completely baffled by the constant music.

For those who don’t know, lacrosse games are unique in that they play music continuously, even while the game is in play. At hockey games, the music stops once the puck drops, but with lacrosse, the energy never dips. I’ve gotten used to it, but for Johnny, it was a whole new experience. He spent most of the game enjoying himself but also questioning why they were blasting music the entire time.

Meanwhile, my boyfriend—who played lacrosse as a kid—had his own moment of nostalgia. Watching the game brought back memories of his time playing, and it was like a full-circle moment for him.

For me, seeing my friends experience something I’ve grown to love was heartwarming. It reminded me of when I first started watching lacrosse and working with the Warriors through BCIT. Those early days were filled with excitement and wonder, and this night brought all those feelings just rushing back.

I’m so grateful for the opportunities BCIT has given me to work with the Warriors and be part of this incredible world of sports. It’s been a dream come true, and I hope to continue building on these experiences even after I finish school.

Sports, whether it’s lacrosse, hockey, or football, have this unmatched ability to bring people together. They create moments of joy, nostalgia, and connection that can stay with you forever. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next, but one thing’s for sure—I’ll always hold space for nights like this, where I get to experience the magic of sports not just as a professional, but as a fan.