‘Pink Pony Club’ or bust: Edmonton Oilers eager to bring back Chappell Roan amid Canada’s growing Stanley Cup drought

For Edmonton Oilers fans, the quest for the Stanley Cup is more than a sports pursuit—it’s a deeply ingrained cultural mission. Despite being one of hockey’s most storied franchises, and Canada’s passionate love for the game, the elusive championship trophy has slipped away from Canadian teams for years, fueling frustration and longing nationwide. Now, amid the growing pressure, the Oilers have found a unique source of inspiration and hope in an unexpected place: the music of Chappell Roan and her haunting hit “Pink Pony Club.”

The Oilers’ embrace of “Pink Pony Club” has become something of a rallying cry—a symbolic soundtrack underscoring their fight against adversity and desire to break Canada’s Stanley Cup drought once and for all. As the team gears up for another season, their eagerness to play Chappell Roan again before games signals more than just musical taste—it represents a mindset and cultural moment.

The Origins of ‘Pink Pony Club’ in Oilers Culture

It began last season, when the Oilers played Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” during pre-game warmups and intermissions at Rogers Place. The edgy, moody pop anthem quickly resonated with both players and fans. The song’s dark yet defiant tone mirrored the team’s gritty playoff battles and the emotional highs and lows of their run.

The vibrant fanbase latched onto the song, dubbing it a kind of unofficial anthem for the Oilers’ resurgence. Social media buzzed with clips of the team warming up to the track, and “Pink Pony Club” became intertwined with the Oilers’ identity—more than just a song, but a mood, a message, a symbol of their relentless pursuit.

Canada’s Stanley Cup Drought: A Nation’s Longing

For Canadian hockey fans, the Stanley Cup represents the pinnacle of national pride. Yet, despite the NHL’s Canadian roots and the country’s deep hockey heritage, no Canadian team has won the Cup since 1993. This drought weighs heavily on franchises like the Oilers, Maple Leafs, Canadiens, and others.

The Oilers’ recent playoff heartbreaks have only intensified the desire to end this streak. Fans yearn to see a Canadian team lift the Cup on home soil again—a moment that would unite the country in celebration and healing after decades of near misses.

The Psychological Power of a Team Anthem

Sports psychology experts highlight the importance of rituals and symbols in team performance. Music, in particular, can unify a locker room, boost morale, and create a shared identity.

“Having a song like ‘Pink Pony Club’ gives the Oilers a psychological edge,” explains Dr. Mia Thompson, a sports psychologist based in Toronto. “It reinforces their brand and mindset—fierce, unapologetic, and resilient. That kind of collective energy can translate into on-ice performance.”

The Oilers’ decision to bring Chappell Roan back to play the song again this season is a deliberate effort to maintain this momentum and cultivate a winning culture.

Players’ Connection to the Song

Several key players have openly expressed their affinity for “Pink Pony Club.” Connor McDavid, the Oilers’ superstar captain, mentioned in a recent interview that the song “captures the intensity and edge we want to bring every game.”

Leon Draisaitl, McDavid’s longtime linemate and another cornerstone of the team, shared that the track “gets us hyped, focused, and reminds us why we compete at the highest level.”

For a team striving to overcome obstacles and chase the Stanley Cup, these emotional connections are vital. Music becomes a way to channel nerves, build camaraderie, and fuel ambition.

Chappell Roan’s Rising Profile

Chappell Roan herself has experienced a surge in popularity thanks in part to the Oilers’ embrace of her music. The Missouri-born singer-songwriter’s blend of indie pop and dark storytelling appeals to a wide audience, crossing generational and geographic lines.

Her association with the Oilers has helped introduce her to Canadian fans, who appreciate her authenticity and evocative style. Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” now stands as an anthem not only for the team but for a fanbase hungry for triumph.

The Cultural Significance for Edmonton

Edmonton is a city steeped in hockey tradition, but also known for its vibrant arts scene and creative spirit. The fusion of sports and music reflects the city’s unique identity.

The Oilers’ choice to spotlight a contemporary artist like Chappell Roan signifies a modern approach—one that blends athletic excellence with cultural expression. This synergy energizes fans and adds a new dimension to the game-day experience.

Breaking the Drought: More Than a Trophy

While winning the Stanley Cup is the ultimate goal, the Oilers’ embrace of “Pink Pony Club” symbolizes a larger mission: to inspire hope, perseverance, and unity among fans and the community.

Canada’s Stanley Cup drought isn’t just about sports statistics; it touches on national identity and pride. For Edmonton and its fans, breaking that streak would be a moment of catharsis and celebration.

What’s Next for the Oilers and ‘Pink Pony Club’?

As the 2025 NHL season approaches, the Oilers are determined to build on their momentum. Playing “Pink Pony Club” again is more than a pre-game ritual—it’s a statement of intent.

The team’s management and coaching staff recognize the importance of fostering a culture where players feel motivated, connected, and ready to compete at their best.

Off the ice, the song’s popularity is helping bridge gaps between players and fans, creating a shared soundtrack for the Oilers’ journey.

Fans’ Excitement and Expectations

Fans eagerly anticipate the return of “Pink Pony Club” to the arena’s sound system. For many, it represents hope and excitement for what’s to come.

Social media conversations are buzzing with speculation about how the song will continue to energize the team and what it symbolizes for the Oilers’ championship aspirations.

The Edmonton Oilers’ embrace of Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” is a fascinating example of how sports teams can connect with culture in meaningful ways. It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about goals scored or games won—it’s about identity, spirit, and collective will.

As the Oilers chase the Stanley Cup and seek to end Canada’s long drought, “Pink Pony Club” stands as their anthem of defiance and hope. Whether this musical inspiration will propel them to glory remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Oilers are ready to ride the rhythm of resilience, determined to bring the Cup back home.