1. How did you first get introduced to curling?

I was first introduced to curling when I was 5 years old. My brother and I joined a local Little Rocks program alongside our family friends. I was pretty much addicted from the start. Although the post curling hot chocolate might have been a big deciding factor at the time.

 

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?

My father and our ‘adoptive’ grandparents Norm and Jean were key factors in my early start to curling. Later on, I was motivated to continue curling at a high level by the wonderful teammates I’ve had throughout my curling career. Special shout out to my fellow northern girls I grew up playing with. Our constant laughs, crazy travel stories, and endless practice sessions continuously helped keep me motivated and enjoying 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?

I would tell someone who is aspiring to be a high-level curler to get out on the ice as much as possible. Two very special people who helped me immensely were Tom and Kelly, I strongly recommend being friends with your local icemaker and curling club staff. Who knows you might end up winning a provincial with them one day like I did! Another great thing to do is to learn productive analysis skills, learning to be in a mindset that allows you to be critical and self-aware without being negative. Avoiding burn-out and keeping the game enjoyable are also very important factors in the longevity of one’s athletic career!

 

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

One of my favourite things about curling is the friendships. I love being able to see my teammates often as well as keep in touch with old friends at events and at league games! It’s a great way to stay active and stay connected.

 

 

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

Though competitive drive is important, outcomes are not everything and if I could go back in time I’d tell my 10-year-old self to not take the losses so hard.

 

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

A curling memory that stands out is competing at the 2015 Canada Winter Games, this was my and my teammate's first National experience. It was such a cool event and we managed to string together an undefeated week. This event was very motivating to continue to work hard and have more similar experiences.

 

 

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

Don’t be shy! If you’re thinking of joining a curling league or learn to curl but are worried about taking the first step, dive right in. Curling clubs are very welcoming environments, be yourself and have fun.

 

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?

To increase Canadians' knowledge about high-level competitive curling, I’d suggest they either get out and try it or watch curling on TV. Curling is one of the few sports where men and women have similar earning potential and similar representation on TV. As we are seeing a large drop-out rate of girls in sports it’s important to have representation in the media.

 

 

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