Lisa Weagle, a two-time Olympian, is set to make her return to the four-player curling circuit next season. She will be joining Team Laurie St-Georges, based in Laval, Quebec, as the team’s lead. Weagle, who previously clinched a world title in 2017 with Rachel Homan’s team and competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, was also part of Jennifer Jones’s squad that represented Canada in the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
After a break from competitive team curling, Weagle remained active in mixed doubles alongside John Epping. Her new team will feature Jamie Sinclair at third and Emily Riley at second. Weagle’s excitement about returning to the four-player format is palpable. She expressed her enthusiasm about joining a team she believes is on the cusp of greatness and looks forward to contributing to their success.
Laurie St-Georges, currently ranked 20th in Canada, has a history of competing at high levels, including a recent appearance at the national championship. Although her team did not advance to the playoffs, St-Georges recognized Weagle’s extensive skill set and experience as a major asset. According to St-Georges, Weagle’s background and recent performances made her an obvious choice for the lead position.
Weagle, now 39, attended the Scotties Tournament of Hearts to support the Sandra Schmirler Foundation. The experience reignited her passion for competitive curling. She hopes that this new opportunity will not only benefit her team but also enhance her mixed doubles game as she prepares for the upcoming Olympic trials in Liverpool, Nova Scotia.
Team St-Georges had a strong record of 32 wins and 19 losses last season. With the departure of Kelly Middaugh, the lead position became available, paving the way for Weagle’s return. Jamie Sinclair, a seasoned player and three-time U.S. champion, will also join the team. Sinclair’s exemption under Curling Canada’s residency policy and her past achievements add further strength to the lineup. The team’s core members, including Sinclair, Riley, and St-Georges, all live within a close range, allowing for regular practice sessions together.
Weagle has kept busy in her hiatus from team curling, focusing on coaching, building a curling academy, and serving as the Canadian chef de mission at the Youth Olympic Games. She reflects on her athletic career with appreciation and is eager to see what the next year holds for her in curling.