As the Toronto Blue Jays prepare to take the field for the 2025 World Series against the LA Dodgers, fans in Portage la Prairie are proudly showing their support, and for some, the team’s run is reigniting lifelong traditions. For Jodi Bowser, the love of the Jays goes all the way back to her childhood. “If I went to Grandma and Grandpa's, the Jays games were always on. At home, my mom, if she couldn't get them on TV, then we listened to them on the radio. No matter where we went, if there was a Jays game on, we had to listen to it.” She says the passion for Toronto’s team runs deep across her family. “The tradition is that everybody in the family loves the Jays,” adds Bowser. For 76-year-old Barbara Bolack, this season has rekindled her enthusiasm after taking a few years away from watching. “We just thought we’d give it a watch and then we ended up getting addicted to it,” remarks Bolack. “When you have kids, you don’t have time to sit and watch. Now that we’re retired, no kids, we watch pretty well every game. Missed a couple, that was about it.” Electric playoff moments Both Bowser and Bolack have been glued to the screen during the team’s playoff push, celebrating every clutch hit and nail-biting win. “I definitely kept believing that we could do it. I never had an ounce of doubt,” continues Bowser, recalling Toronto’s comeback in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. “When Springer got up to bat, I said to my husband, now's the time for a Springer Dinger. He followed through, and it was excellent. Both of us jumped up off the couch and chair. It was definitely exciting.” Bolack says she felt the same energy in her living room. “At first I was a little worried because they were behind, but then a few of them got up there and hit some homers,” she mentions. Lucky charms, favourite players, and game-day pride Bowser admits she’s a little superstitious when it comes to game days. “I have my Jays socks that I was wearing on Sunday night, and then I have a favourite Jays hoodie that I was also wearing,” says Bowser. “I've washed them up now and they'll be back on Friday night. I have my Jay's troll doll that I keep by the TV. This is from the 1992 World Series, so I think it's good luck.” Bolack, on the other hand, keeps her fandom simple but heartfelt. “When we were in Toronto, I bought a hat and a couple for my great-grandsons and one son-in-law that loves the Blue Jays too,” remarks Bolack. When it comes to favourite players, both fans have clear picks. “I definitely love them all, but one that stands out for me would be Vladimir Guerrero Jr.,” notes Bowser. “He's such a team player. He's such an awesome guy. He's just very upbeat on the bench, and he's always having fun. I think that's key to his success.” Bolack agrees teamwork is what makes the Jays special. “They just seem to all get along so good and care about each other,” continues Bolack. “They’re just a good team.” Eyes on the World Series The 2025 World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers begins on Friday, October 24, at Rogers Centre in Toronto. As Toronto heads into the championship, both fans are optimistic and realistic about what lies ahead. “I say Jays in six,” adds Bowser confidently. Bolack hopes the team keeps up the strong play that’s brought them this far. “I wish them luck on Friday,” says Bolack. “I’m proud of them for how far they’ve come. They’ve done good.” With memories spanning generations and excitement filling living rooms across the country, both women agree on one thing: win or lose, the Blue Jays have already made their fans proud. - with files by Mike Blume and Travis Roberts Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon. Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@portageonline.com. PortageOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the PortageOnline app.