1. How did you first get introduced to curling?

Both of my parents curled recreationally weekly in our local mixed league in Sudbury, Ontario. They started to bring both my sister and myself to the rink at a very young age. I patiently waited until I was old enough to try it curling myself, and I was almost instantly hooked. It quickly became a family tradition that every Sunday would be spent at the curling club.

 

2. Was there someone or something that was a key motivating factor for you to curl and to aspire to play at a high level?

As my parents also love the game, curling was often on the television at home. I remember watching Glenn Howard win the 2007 Brier. Shortly after, Glenn and his championship team stopped in my hometown. My elementary school teacher heard about their tour and knew I was a big fan. She encouraged my mom to pull me out of class that day so I could meet the team at one of their stops at Tim Hortons. As Glenn and his teammates signed my broom, this was the first moment I remember wondering about what it would be like to compete at a high level. I wanted to see how far I could take the sport of curling if I continued to practice and work hard.

 

 

3. What would you tell someone aspiring to be a high level curler to do to develop the skills and mindset needed to be able to compete and play at the highest levels of the game?

I would tell athletes aspiring to be high-level curlers that it’s important to dream big and set attainable goals along the way. Even more importantly, I would tell athletes to think action-based about what next steps they need to take to improve their game. Curling is a unique sport in that it is very niche and close-knit. There are many incredible resources and people willing to support the development of athletes - all you need to do is take the initiative and ask.

 

4. What do you enjoy most about the game of curling?

One of my favourite things about the game of curling is the lifelong friendships I have made through the sport. Throughout my athletic career, I have had the opportunity to play on numerous teams with some incredible teammates. I am very fortunate to call many of them my best friends. I know they will continue to be in my life for a long time, whether we are on the same team or not.

 

 

5. If you could go back in time, what would you tell your 10 year old self?

If I could go back in time, I would tell my 10-year-old self to make sure I enjoyed the moment and opportunities that will come my way. Oftentimes, it is easy to get caught up in the results whether it's a big win or a tough loss. Looking back on my curling career, my 10-year-old self would not believe all of the incredible opportunities the sport has provided me. I’ve had the opportunity to compete in numerous Canadian championships in various provinces across Canada, and the privilege to wear the maple leaf at an international event. Through these experiences, I have learned to embrace every moment as you never know what your next opportunity will be.

 

6. Do you have a favourite memory that stands out in your curling career to date?

Throughout my curling career, there have been many highlights including the 2017 Canadian Juniors where we earned a bronze medal, the 2017 & 2019 USport Canadian Championships where we won the title, and my first Scotties Tournament of Hearts in 2021. However, my favourite memory that stands out is my first Canadian Championship - the 2015 Canada Winter Games in Prince George, British Columbia.

This event is unique as it is a multi-sport event that only happens every four years. It was a special week for our team with many firsts. It was not only our first time at a Canadian Championship representing our province, but it was also our first time playing on TSN. We had an incredible week, finishing the event undefeated with an 8-0 record, and a Canadian Championship. I will never forget the feeling of standing on top of the podium with our family and friends cheering us on.

 

 

7. What one piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out in the game of curling?

One piece of advice that I would give to someone just starting out in the game of curling is to not be afraid to try something new. Whether you’ve decided to join a learn to curl, play in a weekly league or try it out with friends, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Be willing to try new positions and play with new people so that you can learn and expand your skills.

 

8. What one suggestion/recommendation would you make to increase what Canadians know about high-level competitive curling and the elite players who compete to be the best in the game? How do you see this making a difference?

I think one of the key factors in promoting the sport of curling is to increase the exposure of our athletes across a variety of levels. When people think of curling they often think about recreational and social settings at their local club. I think it’s important for Canadians to see just how much time, money and preparation goes into becoming an elite curler.

Curling at the elite level requires a high level of athleticism and sport-specific training both on and off the ice. In order to compete, teams require sponsors to help offset costs such as travel, accommodations and event entry fees. However, the top athletes in Canada are not only training every day, but they are also managing full-time careers as there is still not enough money in the sport to financially support athletes on its own.

 

 

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