The Shane Hollander Team Canada Fleece from the popular series “Heated Rivalry” quickly sold out after its release. Available for purchase at $356 Cdn on Province of Canada’s website, the fleece sold out within 10 minutes of its launch. The net profits from the sales will contribute ten percent to the non-profit organization You Can Play, with the NHL and NHL Players’ Association matching donations up to a total of $50,000.
The decision to support You Can Play was influenced by the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, reflecting the core values of “Heated Rivalry,” as stated by the show’s creator Jacob Tierney and producer Brendan Brady.
Although not an official Team Canada merchandise item, the fleece gained popularity among fans following its appearance in the show. Due to high demand, the apparel company decided to release the fleece in response to requests from fans.
Since its premiere in November, “Heated Rivalry” has seen a significant increase in viewership on Crave, growing by 400 percent, making it the top debut show on the streaming platform. Furthermore, outside Canada, the series has become the highest-rated non-animated show ever acquired by HBO Max, according to Variety reports.
At the recent Canadian Screen Awards, the show received a record-breaking 16 awards, including Best Drama Series and Best Lead Actor for Hudson Williams, who dedicated his win to his co-star Connor Storrie.
Additionally, the original fleece worn in the show, designed by Canadian costume designer Hanna Puley, has sparked interest, leading to a restock of the “OG Sherpa Fleece” by Kuwalla Tee, the brand behind the original design. After reaching an agreement in February, the brand now requires tagging and crediting whenever its fleece is featured in marketing materials.
The product description of the fleece on Province of Canada’s website acknowledges its inspiration from the show’s costume design, giving special thanks to Hanna Puley and the ‘Release the Fleece’ community.