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Becoming Canadian

Gene De La Cruz had never played hockey before, but facilitating Canada's game has become his profession

Gene De la Cruz was born in Philippines and lives in Estevan, Saskatchewan. He became a Canadian citizen on July 20, 2016 in Regina, Sask. Gene now works to make sure Canada's favourite sport is played safely.

'I have to know everything, how to drive the Zamboni, how to maintain ice in the rink'

Becoming Canadian ·

This story is part of Becoming Canadian, a year-long project sharing stories of struggle and triumph from new Canadian citizens.

"I never play hockey in my life, but I want to learn how to play. I came to Canada to find a job. That was my goal because in our country there's not too much job. I decided to try my luck in Canada. After a year, I got a work permit in Estevan. I never expect that I can do the job of arena technician. In the Philippines we have ice skating inside the mall, but I never thought that some day I become that. It's hard for me to know everything, especially driving, because I never drive in my country. I have to know everything, how to drive the Zamboni, how to maintain ice in the rink, you need to check the boiler, to make sure the temperature it's good. If not, the ice is going to melt and cause an accident of the hockey player, so we make sure the ice is thick. It's not easy."

A lot of people are watching you driving the Zamboni, and then if you make mistake one line, I feel nervous. All the ice is on you.

"A lot of people are watching you driving the Zamboni, and then if you make mistake one line, I feel nervous. All the ice is on you."

- Gene De la Cruz, born in Philippines. Lives in Estevan, Saskatchewan, became a Canadian citizen on July 20, 2016 in Regina, Sask. 

To find more stories about the struggles and triumphs of new Canadian citizens, follow Canada 2017 on Facebook and @BecomingCDN on Instagram and Twitter.