CityNews previously featured Sunil Peetush, the passionate superfan behind the Habscave, a revered shrine dedicated to the Montreal Canadiens. Now, attention shifts to his daughter, who is making waves by performing the national anthem at hockey games throughout Montreal and its neighboring areas.
From a basement adorned with Canadiens memorabilia to a bustling arena brimming with enthusiastic fans, this narrative embodies the essence of passing on traditions and discovering one’s own voice.
“I was nervous, but this felt like a pivotal moment for me because singing has always been my passion. I felt like I was taking a step closer to my aspirations, and the experience was simply incredible,” shared 12-year-old anthem singer Sofia Rafaella Peetush.
Reflecting on her inspiration, Sofia remarked, “My dad has been a huge influence on me. Growing up, we attended hockey games together, and that environment instilled in me a deeper love for my country, singing, and witnessing the anthem performances on screen and live.”
Sunil Peetush fondly recalled, “She was always singing as she grew up.”
He continued, “As a die-hard Habs fan with the Four Nations event in town and being a proud Canadian, I thought it would be special for Sofia to sing the national anthem. I had never heard her sing it before, and I was pleasantly surprised by her rendition. It gave us chills, and we knew it was something remarkable.”
Sharing his aspirations, Peetush expressed, “I tried to get my son into hockey, with mixed success. But being at the Bell Center feels like a second home to me. As a season ticket holder, having my daughter perform the anthem on that ice would be a dream come true. I hope her anthem singing journey leads her there, standing on the Bell Center ice during an NHL game. That’s a moment I eagerly anticipate.”
