1. How did you first get introduced to curling?

My parents are curlers and brought me out to the curling club when I was young. Eventually when I was big enough, they brought me out  to throw my first rocks at age 7.

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?

I'm very competitive by nature (though sometimes you wouldn't know it by the smile on my face). It was something that was instilled in me since I was younger. I remember playing games against my Dad (from cards to board games) and he wouldn't just let me win (though I'm sure he took it easy on me!) That was key to fuelling my competitive fire and pushing me to work hard to win. I was lucky to have some success when I first started my competitive curling career, which further fuelled the fire to push myself to play at the top of the game.

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?

You need to learn resilience and be a student of the game. Be a sponge and pick up every piece of information you possibly can. Also, to be the top of the game, you have to hone your instincts and trust them.

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

I love the combination of the camaraderie and competition. I also love that it's a sport for life and for all abilities.

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

Enjoy the journey and savour every moment. You never know when you're going to have the opportunity to be back in the place you are. 

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

It would have to be winning the World Mixed title in 2018. When I was 15, I wrote down that I wanted to be a world champion and it was a thrill to have that goal come true at 30 years old.

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

To have fun and enjoy the game. And remember that at the end of the day, it's just a game. Also, step on the ice with your gripper foot.  :)

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 recommend talking to the high level athletes to gain a better understanding of the game. The more questions you can ask, the better. With greater understanding comes greater appreciation. The more opportunities there are to feature the sport and athletes in the media, the more high profile the sport will become.

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