Major Shifts in Curling: A Week of Big Moves and Legendary Farewells
This past week has been a whirlwind in the world of curling, marked by significant changes and heartfelt goodbyes. As the sport transitions into the new Olympic cycle, the so-called free agency period has sparked a flurry of activity, reminiscent of a mid-season trade frenzy in other sports. Teams are keen to finalize their rosters before the critical 18-month build-up to the Canadian Curling Trials.
Recent developments have captivated curling enthusiasts with notable player movements and retirements. One of the most talked-about changes occurred when Brad Jacobs, a veteran skip, moved from Reid Carruthers’ team to join Brendan Bottcher’s former squad. This shift was made even more dramatic by Bottcher’s sudden exit from the team, which propelled him into the free agent market. Jacobs, who has a history of success including an Olympic gold medal in 2014, expressed his excitement about the new challenge and the opportunity it presented.
On the retirement front, the curling community has bid farewell to some of its most iconic figures. Jennifer Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest female skips ever, played her final game at the Players’ Championship in Toronto. Additionally, Glenn Howard, a four-time world champion whose career spanned over four decades, also announced his retirement. Howard’s departure marks the end of an era for many fans who admired his skills and dedication to the sport.
The shifting landscape extends beyond these high-profile retirements and player movements. Changes are also taking place at various levels of competition across Canada. For instance, Kyle Doering, who served as a fifth player for Brad Gushue’s team at the recent world championship, has joined Aaron Sluchinski’s rink. John Epping is set to lead a new team that includes Jacob and Tanner Horgan, while Meghan Walter is stepping away from Kate Cameron’s team to focus on her studies.
With the Canadian Curling Trials approaching in late November 2025, these changes are strategic. Teams are reorganizing to build cohesion and strength as they aim to secure their spot for the 2026 Milan Olympics. The current climate reflects the intense competitiveness in curling, where even established teams are not immune to the pressures and opportunities that come with a new cycle. As the sport evolves, fans and players alike are keenly watching to see how these transitions will influence future competitions.