Blue Jays Fan Knits Playoff Sweater Amid World Series Excitement

UPDATE: As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for the World Series set to kick off on September 29, 2023, one devoted fan has traveled all the way from the United Kingdom to cheer them on. Karla Courtney, a lifelong supporter, has embarked on a unique knitting project to commemorate the playoffs, creating a special sweater designed to boost the team’s fortunes.

“This is a big moment for the Jays and it’s a big moment for me, so I had to come home,” Courtney declared. Her deep-rooted connection to the Blue Jays stems from her upbringing in Toronto and summers spent in Newfoundland, making this playoff run particularly significant.

To ensure she stays connected to the action, Courtney has adjusted her sleep schedule to match the games, which air in the early hours in the UK. To occupy herself during these nerve-wracking late-night matches, she started knitting. Her first creation? A charming Blue Jays sweater for her good luck charm—a knitted lobster. But that wasn’t enough; she is now focused on a post-season sweater, which she only knits on game days.

“However far they go, I’ll have something to commemorate the season,” she emphasized.

Courtney began this ambitious project during Game 4 of the ALDS against the New York Yankees, documenting her progress on social media. Each section of her work reflects the highs and lows of the playoff journey, including a mustard stain from a particularly tough game. “We did lose those two games, so that represents a hard point,” she recounted, pointing to the Blue Jays logo she had crafted.

Knitting serves as her emotional anchor during stressful innings. “I’m only allowed to knit during game days; I haven’t broken that rule,” Courtney explained. “I knit on the flight on the way, but that was a game day, so that’s fine. I’m kind of following the progress of the team. So, hopefully the longer they go, the longer I go.”

Her dedication was on full display during games 6 and 7 of the ALCS at the Rogers Centre. She vividly remembers the electrifying moment when George Springer hit a game-changing home run in Game 7. “I had the sweater in my hands and I thought, ‘Now I’m going to get mascara on it,’” she recalled, overwhelmed by emotion as tears of joy flowed amidst the cheering crowd.

“I am not going anywhere, of course not, no,” she vowed, affirming her commitment to supporting the Blue Jays. “I’ll just keep changing my ticket, I don’t care.” With the World Series on the horizon, Courtney’s story exemplifies the passion and dedication of Blue Jays fans everywhere.

As the team prepares to take the field, all eyes will be on the Blue Jays and their supporters, including Courtney, who is knitting with hope and excitement. Stay tuned for more updates on this incredible playoff journey.