2 Nations Face Off: How Sport Illustrates the Role of Pride in Conflict

Sport draws people together and creates a sense of belonging. This piece outlines how sport, specifically hockey and the 4 Nations Face Off, illustrates the role of pride in conflict.

Signals of Disrespect Trigger a Grounding in One’s Sense of Pride

Tempers flare 10 seconds into the 4 Nations Face Off on February 15, 2025, between Canada and the USA.

Hockey All-Stars face off like many times before within the NHL, with one significant difference.

There is a strong sense of pride on the ice. Pride is the sense of belonging and the feeling that comes from one’s accomplishments, identity and performance.

Pride is often represented when the national anthems are played at the onset of the game and before puck drop.

Sadly, the audience decided to boo during the Star-Spangled banner. A signal of disrespect to the players, and the many souls who lost their lives and live their life in honour of a country they continue to belong within.

While I am proud to be Canadian, I am also mindful of the pride others share towards what matters to them. I do not condone these booing behaviours.

Creating a feeling of disrespect towards what matters to someone is a fast way to generate conflict.

🔑 Creating a feeling of respect helps to neutralize conflict.

And then, 2 players set the stage in a pre-planned engagement for how these teams may want to energize their fans and set the tone for what pride stands for to them.

As Hagel, one of the players in the pre-planned fight said, "He asked, and I'm not backing down from him.” [Sportsnet]

🔑 Pride can get in the way of us stepping away from conflict.

To some, fighting in hockey is an established part of the game. It acts as way for players to settle disputes on the ice, especially when their emotions intensify.

In the locker room, before the game even begun, USA Team Coach Mike Sullivan was shown stating to the players, ‘controlling the emotion is the key’. [As shown live on Sportsnet]

This is easier said than done.

🔑 Emotions, like pride, are often at the root of conflict.

So here I am:
·     When you feel disrespected.
·     When pride gets in the way.
·     When emotions intensify.
·     When it’s easier said than done.

Reach out. Do not let your pride escalate conflict between you and what matters most.

Until then, gear up for February 20th championship game when these 2 nations face off again.

I will be watching. Will you?

Conclusion

By focusing on generating respect towards what to other party shares pride in and to recognize when to call on others for support when emotions are elevated, conflict will be less likely to escalate. You can maintain your sense of pride while sharing in your love for the game.

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