Rocks Across the Pond: Recent Episodes
Rocks Across the Pond
Curling nations will earn points toward Olympic qualification based on how they do at this year’s (and next year’s) men’s and women’s world championships. But should that be the case? Scottish curling champion Ken Horton presents his plan for determining Olympic berths without any points coming from worlds. Hear why he believes this plan will benefit not only the high-performance teams battling for Olympic spots, but even more so the grassroots and competitive club curlers.
Jonathan and Ryan are back to talk about Jonathan’s experience representing England at the European Curling Championships. His English men’s team not only secured a spot in next year’s A-pool for their country, but captured the gold medal.
Curling Jamaica is scheduled to make its competitive WCF debut at the Pan-Continental Curling Championships. Hear about the origins or this federation and how it’s inspiring a new face of curling in our interviews with Ian Robertson and Husani Blaze.
Curling Jamaica
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Brooklyn Curling Center
Marco Mariani is back to tell us about his experience coaching China’s women’s curling team at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing. First, we learn why his lineup changed so much going into the Olympics and the one thing he thinks would have allowed Han Yu’s team to make the medal round. Then, we hear about … Continue reading What was it like coaching in China’s curling program?: Marco Mariani part 2 →
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This is the first of a two-part interview with Italian curling coach and Olympic curler Marco Mariani. In part one, we focus on the current state of curling in Italy as they prepare to host the 2026 Olympics. Marco is not only currently coaching the Italian junior teams, but is also on the committee responsible … Continue reading How is Italy preparing for the 2026 Olympics?: Marco Mariani part 1 →
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This episode takes us near the Arctic Circle, but not quite North of it. We talk to Peter Van Strien from Iqaluit Curling Club, who volunteers there and has represented Nunavut nationally. Peter tells us about living in Nunavut, the unique obstacles his club faces for regular ice time and the progress they’ve made growing … Continue reading Curling in Nunavut w/ Peter Van Strien →
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Melvin Lee, a curling consultant from Ottawa, joins us once again to talk about his recent curling experiences. Melvin is trying to grow the sport within the BIPOC community of his hometown and tells us about his experience hosting a learn to curl at his home club. He also discusses his recent trip to Korea where he curling with 2018 Olympic silver medalists Team Kim.
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Ling-Yue Hung from Team Hong Kong gives us a beginner’s guide to rock matching, including whether or not it can help club-level curlers. She also tells us about her iOS app, CurlingRockBook, which helps curlers of all abilities track the rocks they use at different clubs and competitions.
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The 22 year-old GM of Rose City Curling Club in Camrose, AB, Kiren Scorah, tells us how their club has attracted new members, grown their Little Rocks program and fostered community among their membership.
Rose City Curling Club
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We break down the latest news in curling, including a short-lived Curling Canada pregnancy policy and its hiring for former world champion David Murdoch from Scotland to lead its high performance program.
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In this show we review the 2022 European Curling Championships. We discuss the impact the no-tick rule had on the event and what to watch for in events going forward with this relatively new rule. Next, we break down how Denmark and Scotland were able to bring home gold and which teams surprised us. Finally, … Continue reading Is lead now the toughest position in curling? →
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It’s time for our annual Bad Beer Bet with the fine folks from the Game of Stones podcast. Each year we all make picks for the European A and B pools and the podcast with the fewest points has to drink the beer of the winner’s choosing. In this episode, Ryan from Rocks Across the … Continue reading Previewing the European women’s field w/ Scott Graham of Game of Stones →
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We begin this show by recapping co-host Jonathan Havercroft’s exploits at the 2022 World Mixed Curling Championships. Then, we shift to recent curling news and results from the USA, the inaugural Pan-Continental Curling Championships and the upcoming European Curling Championships.
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USA Curling’s CEO, Jeff Plush, is under fire for how he responded when notified of allegations of abuse and sexual misconduct. He received allegations against a soccer coach while he was commissioner of the National Women’s Soccer League in 2015 and how he handled them calls into question whether curlers can have confidence in him … Continue reading USA Curling deserves better from its leadership →
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What was it like at the world’s highest bonspiel? Find out in this episode all about curling in India with PN Raju. First, we talk about how he discovered curling and started playing in Oakland, Calif. Then, he tells us about the history of the Curling Federation of India, their recent national championships held in … Continue reading Curling in India w/ PN Raju →
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Recently, USA Curling’s board of directors voted to remove the regional association representing clubs in the Eastern United States, the Grand National Curling Club. We dive into why this happened, what this means, possible resolutions and the next steps for the two organizations. Joining us are Kristen Conrad, vice chair of the GNCC board of … Continue reading What’s next in the USA Curling/GNCC situation →
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Gery Hermans from Belgian Curling returns to the podcast to discuss the world senior curling championship. Jonathan and Gery review the 2022 world senior curling championship and the Gery replays two interviews he completed at the event. The first is with Canadian Team Coach Bill Tschirhart. Bill is also the host of the podcast “A … Continue reading World Seniors Curling w/ Gery Hermans →
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Today we are joined by Germany’s Klaudius Harsch recent winner of two world championship medals: a bronze in mixed doubles with his partner Pia-Lisa Schöll, and a silver as part of Germany’s junior men’s team. We recorded the interview between the two events. We discuss what curling is like in Germany. How he got into … Continue reading A Conversation with Germany’s Klaudius Harsch →
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In this episode Jonathan interviews two people who helped the Ukraine national team leave Kyiv, find a new training facility in Finland, and compete in the European C Curling Championship. First we talk with Natalia Menzhega the Executive Secretary of the Ukrainian Curling Federation. She talks about the history of curling in Ukraine, how she … Continue reading How The Curling Community is Helping the Ukrainian National Team →
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Latvia’s wheelchair curling team, led by skip Poļina Rožkova, made its Paralympic debut at the 2022 Games in Beijing. Poļina tells us about the team’s road from the B division to Paralympic qualification and takes us behind the scenes in Beijing. This includes her team’s conversations about whether or not to potentially play against Russia … Continue reading Latvia’s Road to the Paralympics w/ Poļina Rožkova →
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Sweden captured four curling medals during the Olympics and Paralympics in 2022, including gold for Niklas Edin. But did this unparalleled success lead to more curlers in the country? We talk to development officer Sara Carlsson to find out all about curling in Sweden: from how their high performance program is set up to the … Continue reading Did Olympic and Paralympic success mean more curlers in Sweden? →
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Stewart Pimblett has been a dedicated curler even before he started playing. His journey to try the sport at the rink in Kelso, Scotland was a harrowing one and is one of the most incredible “how I started curling” stories you’ll hear. He went on to establish the Northern Ice Wheelchair Curling Club and has … Continue reading Starting a wheelchair curling club w/ Stewart Pimblett →
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Get to know each of the wheelchair curling teams scheduled to compete at the 2022 Paralympics in Beijing. Please note this was recorded and posted before a definitive decision has been made on the participation of the team representing the Russian Paralympic Committee. 2022 Paralympic Curling Schedule Oyuna Uranchimeg’s Journey to the Paralympics
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We recap a fun Olympic curling tournament. First, we discuss the narratives surrounding the performances of Canada, Sweden and Great Britain. What’s next for Curling Canada? Do we have a new greatest curler of all time? Is Team GB’s process justified? Then we list our favorite things from these Olympics, including the BBC’s dislike of … Continue reading Narratives and favorite things from the Olympics →
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Like the United States, interest in curling soars in Japan during the Olympics. This interest has reached even greater levels following Japan’s bronze medal performance at the 2018 games. Naoki Iwanaga, a former competitive curler from Japan now living in the US, joins us to talk all things Japanese curling. We discuss the differences in … Continue reading How the Olympics expands Japan’s curling “pond” →
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And down the stretch they come! Every team at the Olympics has three games left on their schedule at the time of this recording. First, we try to untangle the women’s standings. Then, we breakdown the game that will probably decide the men’s playoff field. Olympic and Paralympic Curling Schedule Our Welcome to Curling series … Continue reading Breaking down the Olympic playoff races →
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As everyone predicted (and by everyone, we mean no one), Italy will face Norway for the mixed doubles curling gold. In this episode we review the mixed doubles competition going into the gold- and bronze-medal games, especially the fantastic stories of Italy and Australia. We also discuss what trends could emerge in mixed doubles as … Continue reading Mixed doubles in Beijing was wild and wonderful →
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Everyone’s Olympic curling dream has to start somewhere. For Laventer Oguta and Haggai Odhiambo Ogak, that dream starts New Jersey. These two members of the Kenya Curling Federation recently got their first experience on curling ice at Plainfield Curling Club with hopes that they will soon represent their nation in World Curling Federation events. They … Continue reading Curling in Kenya w/ Laventer Oguta and Haggai Odhiambo Ogak →
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A truly phenomenal field of champion curling teams will go for gold during the women’s tournament at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. Listen to our Welcome to Curling series See the 2022 Olympic curling schedule The remarkable return of Korea’s Team Kim China’s Han Yu prepares for the Olympics
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Some of the most decorated men’s curlers in the sport’s history are in the 2022 Olympic curling field. Listen to our Welcome to Curling series See the 2022 Olympic curling schedule The Ballad of John Shuster Curling in Denmark with Mads Nørgaard
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We’ve documented the trials and tribulations that Korea’s Team Kim Eun-jung experienced during and after their Olympic silver medal. Well, now we get to hear about the happy part of their story. The part where Team Kim earned its way back to the Olympics. We are joined by coach Peter Gallant and curling consultant Melvin … Continue reading Korea’s Team Kim makes triumphant Olympic return →
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The Olympic mixed doubles field features some familiar faces from 2018, some of the game’s best shooters and two countries making their Olympic debut. Listen to our Welcome to Curling series See the 2022 Olympic curling schedule Curling in Australia with Tahli Gill’s mom, Lyn Mixed doubles curling with Anna Fowler
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Wondering how to watch curling during the Olympics and Paralympics on Peacock and the networks of NBC Universal? We give you a quick explainer on how to stream the games live and watch on linear TV. Olympic and Paralympic Curling Schedule Our “Welcome to Curling” series for newcomers
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. Why do curling players sweep? Who are the greatest curlers of all time? Where can I follow curling during and after the Olympics? Get the answers to these questions and more in … Continue reading Welcome to curling! Frequently Asked Questions →
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. In this episode, we tell you how you can try curling, why we love it and why it offers something for everyone. We are joined by Alice Kloker, a recreational curler from … Continue reading Welcome to curling!: How you can try curling →
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. In this episode, we cover the modern history of curling and how the game has professionalized since becoming part of the full Olympic program in 1998. We are joined by Ryan Nagelhout, … Continue reading Welcome to curling! How curling became an Olympic sport (History part 2) →
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. In this episode, we cover the history of the sport from the frozen lochs of Scotland through its evolution into what we recognize today. We are joined by Ryan Nagelhout, a sports … Continue reading Welcome to curling! The origin of the sport (History part 1) →
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. This episode goes into the strategies and tactics teams will use to try to capture gold in Beijing. For this episode, we are joined by Alex Freedman, play-by-play announcer for the Oklahoma … Continue reading Welcome to curling! Strategy and tactics you’ll see during Olympic curling →
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. This episode helps you decode the jargon and terminology you’ll hear from the players and announcers while you’re watching curling. For this episode, we are joined by Meredith Kane, a radio producer … Continue reading Welcome to curling!: Terms, jargon and what you’ll hear during Olympic curling →
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Our Welcome to Curling series is designed to help newcomers to the sport understand what they’re watching during the 2022 Olympics and beyond. This episode explains the rules, equipment and game setup for the Olympic curling tournaments. For this episode, we are joined by Lauren Brownlow, a sports journalist from North Carolina. Additional episodes in … Continue reading Welcome to curling!: Rules, stones, brooms and how the game is played →
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Slovenia is a country that has everything, but doesn’t have a lot of anything. So says Štefan Sever, who joined us from quarantine at the World Junior B Curling Championships to tell us all about curling in his country. And while Slovenia doesn’t have a lot of curlers, 150 total according to Štefan, it does … Continue reading Curling in Slovenia w/ Štefan Sever →
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The 2022 World Junior B Curling Championships, which determine the final entrants for World Juniors, was canceled on Jan. 6 after an outbreak of COVID-19 among the competitors. We are joined not only by our usual co-host, Jonathan Havercroft, but by all of Team England: Joe Sugden, Felix Price, Archer Woods and Harry Pinnell. They … Continue reading Emergency Podcast: Inside the cancelation of the World Junior Bs →
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What a couple of weeks it’s been in the curling world. For the Olympic qualifier, we cover Australia’s mixed doubles triumph, the start of the men’s and women’s events and the EasyToys sponsorship resolution. Next, we discuss upcoming events that have already been canceled and the status of others. Finally, Jonathan puts the breakup of … Continue reading Aussies in the Olympics, Sexy Sponsors, Event Cancelations and Team Breakups →
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We go around the world as curling teams start earning spots at the 2022 Olympics in Beijing. We cover the USA Curling Olympic Trials, Canadian Olympic Trials, European Championships and the upcoming mixed doubles Olympic Qualification Event. In addition to the action on the ice, we talk about the hoops we’ve had to jump through … Continue reading Olympic spots on the line →
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In this episode: Recapping the World Wheelchair Curling Championships Updates from the Canadian pre-trials & US mixed doubles trials The Scottish women’s team is selected for Euros (but not Olympic qualifying) A recent event looking at why young women are dropping out of youth curling in Scotland Looking ahead to international events and Olympic trials
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In this episode we discuss the fragmented state of curling live streams and how it mirrors the world of streaming overall. What will the future hold for live streaming of curling events, both on tour and at the national and world level? Also in this episode: Olympic qualifiers Canadian Pre-Trials British Curling’s team selections World … Continue reading What does the future of curling live-streaming look like? →
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Lots of excited news from around the curling news to discuss. We start in the US where the Southern California Curling Center hosted Team USA and the Late Late Show with James Corden. We also have news from curling center that either just opened or will soon across the US in San Francisco, Austin, Nashville … Continue reading News from some the USA’s newest curling centers →
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Jonathan and Ryan discuss the news out of the World Curling Federation’s Annual General Assembly. First, the rule changes that will be tested at the 2022 World Curling Championships. Does the version of the game we see on TV need to match what we experience at curling centers? Are we over-complicating things for potential first-time … Continue reading Does Curling on TV Need to Look Like Club Curling? →
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There is a thriving community of Brazilian curlers playing in leagues in the Vancouver area. First and foremost, these curlers enjoy the sport and the camaraderie it provides. And curlers from these leagues have represented Brazil internationally. But now, with the opening of a dedicated curling and ice facility in São Paulo, Brazilian curling has … Continue reading Curling in Brazil w/ Ísis Oliveira →
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Some of us might be getting access to practice ice for the first time in 18 months. So how do we make the most of this time before the curling season starts? Our own Professor of Peel, Jonathan Havercroft, is here to let us club curlers know how to organize an efficient curling practice that … Continue reading We’re Talking About Curling Practice →
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James Runge (@twinetime14 on Twitter) has been to just about every curling event you can name. So he knows what advantages curling has as a spectator sport. He tells us what each of the major events he’s been to does best when it comes to catering to the fans. We also discuss how these events … Continue reading Improving Curling’s High-Profile Events w/ James Runge →
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Born in Mongolia, Bat-Oyun “Oyuna” Uranchimeg had her life changed forever after a car accident while visiting the United States in 2000. Oyuna shares the incredibly story of how she went through rehabilitation, immigrated to the US, was reunited with her son and eventually discovered the sport of curling. Now a member of Team USA, … Continue reading Bat-Oyun “Oyuna” Uranchimeg’s Journey to the USA Wheelchair Curling Team →
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You may not be familiar with Belgium’s international curling representatives. And that’s perfectly fine. What you need to be aware of is curling is growing in Belgium thanks to a focus on making it a fun, social experience. We talked with Gery Hermans of Curling Club Zemst about the growth of the sport in Belgium. … Continue reading Curling in Belgium w/ Gery Hermans →
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Australia has a vibrant curling community despite several road blocks. There are no dedicated curling facilities and very few ice rinks. It’s a large country whose population centers are spread out. So how is Australia growing the sport and making the semifinals at the World Mixed Doubles Curling Championships? We spoke to native Australian and … Continue reading Curling in Australia w/ Lyn Gill →
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Ryan came prepared to talk about curling. Jonathan came prepared to talk about dinosaurs. The compromise is an episode where we assign a curler to each of the Top 10 most popular dinosaurs. It is peak summertime content. Plus news from the curling world, including the cancelation of the World Mixed Curling Championship.
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Fort Wayne Curling Club has had an interesting history. The club in northeast Indiana starting curling on skating ice in 2010. Since then, they’ve moved not once, but twice to two different dedicated curling rinks. How did this club go from arena ice to a three-sheet dedicated facility to another four-sheet facility? We asked president … Continue reading Curling Case Study: Indiana’s Fort Wayne Curling Club →
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Jonathan and Ryan give their wishlist for the 2021-22 curling season and beyond. We look at our own curling experience, the podcast and competitive curling and give you our ideas that we hope happen. Plus, recent curling news from Sweden to Kansas City. Let us know what’s on your curling wishlist: Follow us on Twitter … Continue reading Our Curling Wishlist →
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First up we review women’s worlds, the slams and men’s worlds and learn why Jonathan has started calling Russia “Team VPN.” This leads to debates about live streams, Olympic expansion and rugby codes. Then we give quick previews of mixed doubles worlds and US nationals. Finally, we have curling news from Lithuania to LA and … Continue reading Team VPN and News from Around the Curling World →
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Get ready for the 2021 World Women’s Curling Championship with our in-depth preview. We go team-by-team and give you what to watch for during the tournament. Plus, we get to know three of the teams thanks to interviews with China’s coach, Marco Mariani, Japan’s coach, Connor Njegovan, and Korea’s coach, Lim Myung-sup. Estonian Curling with … Continue reading 2021 World Women’s Curling Championship Preview →
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And now for something completely different. We dive into Canadian curling champion Ed Lukowich’s sci-fi novel, The Trillionist and Ed’s Trillion Theory. Joining us to explore the concepts in the novel is Andrew Heaton. Heaton is a comedian, author, political satirist and host of the sci-fi podcast “Alienating the Audience.” Trillion Theory Andrew Heaton Andrew … Continue reading Exploring Ed Lukowich’s Sci-Fi Novel, The Trillionist, with Andrew Heaton →
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“Run it Back” is our continuing series looking at important games from curling’s Olympic age. In this edition, we talk to Actual Scotsman Kerr Alexander about the 2009 men’s Worlds final between David Murdoch and Kevin Martin. This game includes the most infamous strategic decision in curling history. Other Topics: Scottish sporting shortcomings, acoustic guitar … Continue reading Run it Back: 2009 World Men’s Curling Championship Final w/ Kerr Alexander →
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We have all you need to know for the 2021 World Men’s Curling Championship. First, we preview each team, including an interview with China’s coach, Sören Grahn. Then, we break the teams down into tiers and discuss the possible scenarios that will impact qualification for the 2022 Olympic Games. As many as six teams will … Continue reading 2021 World Men’s Curling Championship Preview →
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Bottcher Time is here. Plus: Did this Brier give us a look at the future? Who’s now (or still) the favorite to represent Canada at the Olympics. 3rd End Saskatchewan vs. Wild Card 2
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We proudly bring you the story of the 1991 USA Curling women’s national champions from Houston, Texas. All four team members help take us through their journey from a mall skating rink to the world championships. YouTube playlist of footage from 1991
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We preview a wide-open, veteran-heavy Bubble Brier. Which teams will be most impacted by the shortened season? Which teams are going to pull upsets? Is it Bottcher Time? Plus, info on how to watch the Brier in the United States and other podcasts you might enjoy.
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We are excited to welcome Amanda Gates, the lead from Northern Ontario, to take us inside the Calgary Curling Bubble. Amanda describes her team’s preparation before entering the bubble and the moment she knew this was unlike any curling tournament she’d played in before. We also learn about why it’s special to represent Northern Ontario … Continue reading Inside the Calgary Curling Bubble with Amanda Gates from Northern Ontario →
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We are here to sort out the results of the 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts as well as give out some awards. First, we look at the storylines that emerged from Team Canada’s victory over Ontario in the final and Alberta’s run to the semifinal. Then, we hand out some awards including Rookie of the … Continue reading 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Review & Awards →
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The Global Initiative for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Curling has lofty goals. They want to inspire all of curling’s stakeholders (from the very top to the grassroots) to make the sport reflect the communities in which it’s played. We are joined by India’s P.N. Raju, the USA’s Monica Walker and Sweden’s Sara Carlson to … Continue reading How Curling Orgs Can Help Foster Diversity →
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“Run it Back” is our continuing series looking at important games from curling’s Olympic age. In this episode, we discuss the 2001 Scott Tournament of Hearts final between Colleen Jones and Kelley Law. Joining us is Sean Graham from the Game of Stones Podcast to discuss this game’s place in curling history. Among the topics: … Continue reading Run it Back: 2001 Scott Tournament of Hearts Final with Sean Graham →
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For the first time in almost a year we get to talk about major curling events. First, we preview the 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts with Jonathan’s 10 things to watch. Then, we preview the Swiss Championships and Japanese Championships and tell you why they’re intriguing this year. Finally, we interject with an update on … Continue reading Actual Curling! Scotties, Swiss & Japanese Previews, but Women’s Worlds is Canceled →
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In 1998, the Danish women’s curling team took home silver at the Nagano Olympics. They did this despite no dedicated curling rinks anywhere in their country. Since then, curling has grown in the country and Denmark has regularly sent teams to the Olympics. We talk to Danish curling president Henrik Christoffersen and Mads Nørgaard of … Continue reading Nothing is Rotten About Curling in Denmark →
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What does it mean to be a member of USA Curling? What benefits does an individual or club get from membership? That’s now in the process of changing. USA Curling is rolling out a new membership structure where individuals, not just clubs, can join the national organization. In this show, we talk about what that … Continue reading USA Curling’s Changing Membership Structure →
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USA Curling CEO Jeff Plush was on the job for less than a month before the world changed due to a global pandemic. He joins us to discuss how USA Curling is navigating the pandemic and his plans for the future of the organization. He has high hopes to strengthen the sport in the US … Continue reading USA Curling CEO Jeff Plush on How the US Can Develop Sustained Success →
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The World Championship Qualifiers in Denmark were recently suspended due to a positive COVID-19 test. Despite having similar protocols in place to the proposed Calgary curling bubble, the disease infiltrated the field of just four teams and spread quickly. Danish Curling Federation Chairman Henrik Christoffersen and Mads Nørgaard of Team Krause join us to talk … Continue reading COVID-19 Halts Worlds Qualifier in Denmark – What We Can Learn →
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This is part of our series, “Run it Back,” which looks at key games during curling’s Olympic age. We start with the 1997 Brier Final between Kevin Martin and Vic Peters. Kevin Palmer of Curling Legends Podcast and Curl with Math joins us to discuss this game’s place in curling history. Among the topics: Warren … Continue reading Run it Back: 1997 Brier Final with Kevin Palmer →
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Korea’s Team Kim Eun-jung reached incredible heights at the 2018 Olympics on home ice. However, behind the scenes they suffered at the hands of those closest to them. We talk to their coach, Peter Gallant, and curling consultant Melvin Lee about their courageous journey and their return to the top of Korean curling.
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There’s plenty to talk about in the curling world, including: The “Curling Bubble” and what it means for the Olympics USA Curling’s Annual General Meeting Club closures in North America What changes clubs can make coming out of the pandemic to grow membership The triumphant victory of Team Kim at the Korean Curling Championships
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It wasn’t long ago that Shamrock Curling Club in Edmonton looked like it might close. Now, the club is thriving and has attracted a younger generation to curling. One of the people behind this revival is general manager Chris McTavish. In this episode, Chris tells us the story of how the Shamrock took a different … Continue reading Curling Case Study: Edmonton’s Shamrock Curling Club →
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How do you build a country’s curling culture from scratch? Find out during our interview with Fred Randver of Estonia’s Curling Tallinn. Fred tells the history of curling in Estonia and how they were able to get a world-class facility built in Tallinn. Thanks to this facility, the country is quickly developing quality grassroots and … Continue reading Curling Case Study: Estonia’s Curling Tallinn →
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How quickly can COVID-19 spread among participants, volunteers and spectators at a curling event? Dr. Paul Luethy joins the show to tell us. Dr. Luethy is an Assistant Professor in Pathology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and Assistant Director of the Clinical Microbiology Lab at the University of Maryland Medical Center. But … Continue reading How COVID-19 Spreads at a Curling Event →
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And now for something completely different. We joined Scott & Sean Graham from Game of Stones to pitch our ideas for curling movies to an actual screenwriter, Faisal Lutchmedial. Faisal most recently wrote on Endlings (broadcast on CBC and Hulu) and Ransom (broadcast on CBS and Global). He is currently developing a sci-fi action series … Continue reading Curling Movie Mania →
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If you weren’t already suffering from Zoom Fatigue, we are here to talk webinars and streaming. First, Alyson Wiedenbeck joins us to discuss the wide range of topics they’re covering at the Curler Outreach Program. Then our friend Stephanie Thompson joins us to talk about how she’s helping to keep curlers of all skill levels … Continue reading Ep63: Connecting with Curlers during COVID-19 →
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Mike Ferguson, owner of the Forfar ice rink in Scotland, joins us to talk all things Scottish Curling. We discuss how to address declining interest in curling in Scotland, their return to play during the pandemic and the newly created British Players Curling Championship. Forfar Indoor Sports Scottish Curling’s Return to Play Guidelines British Players … Continue reading Ep62: Crowning British Curling’s People’s Champ w/ Mike Ferguson →
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One of the newest member associations in World Curling is Nigeria. Harold Woods III, who skipped Team Nigeria at the 2019 Pacific-Asia Curling Championships, joins us to discuss his start in curling, the history of the Nigerian Curling Federation and how they are working to grow the sport there. We also talk about making curling … Continue reading Ep61: Curling in Nigeria w/ Harold Woods III →
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The future of curling will rely on our ability to grow the game with younger demographics. But how do we get the next generation to play the sport and watch it on TV? John Allgood, Assistant Professor and Academic Director of the Executive Masters of Sports Business at Temple University, joins us to discuss this … Continue reading Ep60: Creating Curling’s Next Generation of Raving Fans w/ John Allgood →
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And now for something completely different. Author and pro beach volleyball player Travis Mewhirter joins the show to discuss that sports’ growing pains since joining the Olympics. How alike are the two sports? Well, beach volleyball joined the Games around the same time and features self-formed teams in a tour-based system. They even had a … Continue reading Ep59: Are Curling’s Growing Pains Unique? w/ Travis Mewhirter →
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We are joined by Megan Balsdon and Derek Leung to discuss their research into curling and curling rocks. Both are competitive curlers and academics who are using science to help us better understand curling. Megan is studying how different types of brooms affect curling ice. Derek is looking at how different types of granite react … Continue reading Ep58: A Curling Science Fair! →
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Ken Pomeroy joins the podcast to talk analytics in curling. He is the founder of KenPom.com, which revolutionized the way we analyze college basketball. Ken is also a curler and has started applying some of his analytics to the curling world at DoubleTakeout.com. In this episode, we dive into how Ken got into the game … Continue reading Ep57: New Ways to Analyze Curling w/ Ken Pomeroy →
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This episode is all about building new dedicated curling facilities. We talk with Alan Hannah, who is working to build a new curling center in Glasgow, Scotland. Also, Liza Beres and Matt Gamboa of Hollywood Curling discuss the efforts to bring dedicated ice to Los Angeles. Glasgow Ice Centre Southern California Curling Center
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We welcome CurlingZone’s Gerry Geurts to the show to discuss the impact COVID-19 will have on the upcoming season, changes to curling’s ratings systems and ways competitive curling tours can help promote the growth of the sport. Jonathan also has an update for us on Scottish Curling’s selection system for the World Curling Championships.
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We are joined by Adriana Camarena—a writer, rule of law consultant, anti-police brutality activist and member of Mexico’s national curling team—for a much-needed discussion on how curling can be more inclusive, the Black Lives Matter movement and the fight against racism in the United States. Unsettlers.org Justice for Luis Góngora Pat
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In this episode we discuss: COVID-19’s impact on the business of curling; the World Curling Tour’s new ranking system; Scotland and Russia’s new methods for selecting their World Championship representatives; the Worlds as just an Olympic qualifier; the impact this might eventually have on the Brier and Scotties. Links How would Canada’s Scotties and Brier … Continue reading Ep53: Have the Worlds Devolved into Just an Olympic Qualifier? →
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The changes in curling in the United States and in high-level curling can be told through the story of John Shuster. His Olympic triumph vindicated his team and legitimized USA curling. This is the story of the changes in Shuster’s sport, his team and himself that led to that moment. Links: Shuster’s interview after beating … Continue reading Ep52: The Ballad of John Shuster →
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Jamie Danbrook joins us to talk about his curling career and his current gig as an ice maker. He’s played at junior worlds with Brett Gallant and the Brier with Brad Gushue. Now he makes ice in Nova Scotia and for the World Curling Federation. Jamie has made ice all over the world and faced … Continue reading Ep51: Keen Ice w/ Jamie Danbrook →
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Non-curling topics: “This is fine,” how we’re staying sane and shows we’re binge watching. Curling topics: The 2020 World Championships are officially canceled. We discuss how this will affect team selection and the Olympics. Special Guest: Stephanie Thompson, a Registered Kinesiologist and the second on Team Wasylkiw, talks about staying fit even while sheltering in … Continue reading Ep50: Curling Fitness for Everyone w/ Stephanie Thompson →
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We interrupt your regular existential dread to bring you some things that don’t matter. We talk the cancelation of all things curling, team changes and how we’re coping with quarantine. We need to keep podcasting to stay sane, so please send us topics you’d like us to cover to rocksacrossthepond@gmail.com.
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We discuss arena curling strategies (as in U.S. arena curling clubs), trends from the Scotties and Brier and worldwide national championships before previewing women’s worlds. Get a team-by-team breakdown including how this year’s tournament will impact the race for Olympic points.
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A division in Polish Curling came to a head in February 2020 when the WCF suspended the Polish Curling Association. We look into the reasons likely at the root of the suspension and are joined by Marcin Madej of the Polish Federation of Curling Clubs. Marcin provides insight into the history of curling in Poland, … Continue reading Ep47: No Solidarity in Polish Curling →
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We start by recapping the many national curling championships that just completed, including Scotland, Switzerland, Japan and the US. We finish off by discussing the recent hire of Jeff Plush as the new CEO of USA Curling, hear from some people who know him better than we do and talk about what his success will … Continue reading Ep46: What do we think of USA Curling’s new CEO? →
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Jonathan and Ryan preview the upcoming championships for the USA, Scotland, Switzerland and Japan (plus we spend about 30 seconds on Sweden). Will any young up-and-coming teams claim titles? Why is it so important that Japan is missing out on this year’s Men’s World Championship? Why doesn’t Jonathan like Tim Horton’s? We attempt to answer … Continue reading Ep45: Rings Around the World 2020 →
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Jonathan recaps his recent curling trip to Lativa and we are joined by Joe Calabrese from 12th End Sports Network. Joe tells us about the birth of TESN’s webcasts and how their coverage of USA Curling Nationals has grown in the nine years they’ve been doing them. We also preview what to look for on … Continue reading Ep44: Bringing Curling to the Masses w/ Joe Calabrese →
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We return from our holiday break to discuss a number of curling topics. We look at curling’s rankings system, why it can be tougher for European teams to earn points, an important facility closure, the difference in how clubs are set up in Europe vs. North America and we get Jonathan’s perspective on Curling Canada’s … Continue reading Ep43: Merit Badges →
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Adriana Camarena, the skip of Mexico’s women’s team, joins us ahead of Mexico’s trip to the 2020 World Qualification Event in Lohja, Finland. We discuss her start with the San Francisco Bay Area Curling Club, how she became a part of Curling Mexico, her experience at the 2019 World Mixed Doubles Curling Championship & 2019 … Continue reading Ep42: Mexico’s Curling Dream with Adriana Camarena →
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Bobby Torres from the Curling Club at Penn State joins us to discuss his recent Growth of Curling Survey. It’s a fascinating look at how real curlers feel curling clubs can improve. We talk about learn-to-curl opportunities, marketing to the next generation and the unorthodox ways his club is attracting new members. Also, Jonathan and … Continue reading Ep41: Surveying Curling’s Growth with Bobby Torres →
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It’s a double episode! Scott Graham from Game of Stones joins Jonathan to recap the European Championships, debate the broom fiasco and determine the losers of the Bad Beer Bet. But first we talk to Craig Nicko from Craig’s Curling Shoes about crafting crazy custom curling kicks.
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It’s a crossover episode! Scott from Game of Stones joins Ryan to preview the men’s side of the draw. We break down what’s at stake in this event and go over each team in the A flight as well as a B flight that is full of very solid teams. Check out the Game of … Continue reading Ep39: 2019 Euro Men’s Preview with Game of Stones →
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Jonathan regales us with tales from the 2019 World Mixed Curling Championships, including the thrilling finishes to the Gold and Bronze Medal games, how the Nigeria and Kosovo teams came to be and whether or not he’s now motivated to return. We also discuss the difference in the World Curling Tour between now and 20 … Continue reading Ep38: Mixing It Up →
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Toronto curler and Hong Kong men’s skip Jason Chang joins the show to help us preview the 2019 Pacific-Asia Curling Championships. We discuss how he came to represent Hong Kong, the growth of curling in the region and sort out the favorites and sleeper picks for this year’s tournament, taking place Nov. 2-9 in Shenzhen, … Continue reading Ep37: 2019 PACC Preview with Jason Chang →
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We have two special guest hosts this episode: Ontario-turned-England curler Rob Retchless and English junior curler Felix Price. Rob talks changing affiliations to England, Ontario’s curling scene and prioritizing life and family over curling. You may remember Felix from our etiquette episode. He’s back to help Ryan make fun of Jonathan, preview the World Mixed … Continue reading Ep36: Retchless & Jonathan-less →
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We take you around the curling world in interviews with Trevor Gau of Triangle Curling Club, Joël Retornaz of Team Italy and J.D. Lind of Team Japan. Find out how Triangle went from curling on hockey ice to their own dedicated facility and the get a taste of the state of the sport in Italy … Continue reading Ep35: Around the World at Curling Night in America →
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A spoiler-free batch of interviews from the taping of Curling Night in America in Raleigh, including USA Curling CEO Rick Patzke, Cory Christensen and Sarah Anderson of Team Sinclair and John Landsteiner of Team Shuster. Topics include gearing up for the 2019-20 season, mixing in mixed doubles to an already crowded season and the role … Continue reading Ep34: Team USA Interviews from Curling Night in America →
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We debate eight ends vs. 10 ends and how eight-end curling would have changed some of the best games from the last decade. Also, the curling season is upon us. We find out how Jonathan’s new team came together with skip Rob Retchless, talk early season results in the Pacific Asia region and Ryan gets … Continue reading Ep33: Eight is Enough →
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Saskatchewan has long been one of curling’s hotbeds. But is the sport in trouble at the grassroots level there? Brady Lang from 650 CKOM in Saskatoon joins us to talk about the state of curling in Saskatchewan, what’s contributed to the decline in number of curlers there, what’s being done to reverse those trends and … Continue reading Ep32: Is Curling Declining in Saskatchewan? →
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We are joined by Felix Price from Team Sugden (the junior team Jonathan coaches) to talk about curling etiquette. Three generations of curlers discuss when and how to teach it to new curlers with in-depth discussions on pace of play and the burned rock rule. All this plus the latest curling news, including the end … Continue reading Ep31: Oh No, It’s an Etiquette Episode →
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We review the most interesting stories and most interesting teams from the 2018-19 curling season. Topics include the impact of the five-rock rule, the Curling World Cup, people getting mad on social media, Korean women’s curling, new teams that worked & didn’t, this year’s break out stars and the best toys for watching curling at … Continue reading Ep30: 2018-19 Curling Year in Review & You Should Get Rachel Homan a Tranquil Turtle →
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We give a lot of love to the USA Curling Arena Nationals and recount all of our previous failures at it. We then preview every team at this year’s event and interview Travis Geiser of the Chester County CVB and Dave Rosler & Dave Kolibaba of Ocean State Curling Club. If you enjoy this podcast, … Continue reading Ep29: An Enormous USA Curling Arena Nationals Tribute & Preview →
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Topics: We preview the World Mixed Doubles Curling Championship with England’s Anna Fowler. Anna and her brother, Ben, are the first English team to be accepted to the British Curling program. She talks about how she got into curling, what she likes about mixed doubles and what it took to become part of Team GB. … Continue reading Ep28: Mixed Doubles Curling w/ Anna Fowler of Team GB →
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Topics: A Swedish win makes this the Edin Decade; Kevin Koe: Good at curling; Japan’s ‘hello, world’ tournament; a frustrating finish for the USA; a near breakthrough for Italy; effects of the five-rock free guard zone; the USA-Canada cheering kerfuffle; the political philosophies of Stanley Cavell.
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Topics: A team-by-team breakdown of the 2019 World Men’s Curling Championship; what John Shuster & Kevin Koe have left to prove; the youth movement in Europe; Joël Retornaz’s renaissance; why China & Japan will be the surprise teams. Music: Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: A wild extra end gives Switzerland gold; a recap of each team’s performance and what it means going forward; the bright future for Korea, Japan & China; tough luck for the USA; a new reality for Canada; the tweak we would make to the format. Music: Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: Everything you want to know about all 13 teams at the 2019 Women’s World Curling Championships, from Latvia to Canada. Does the event being in Denmark benefit anyone? What teams will outperform expectations? Music: Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: http://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: Quick hitters on the most interesting teams from the 2019 Scotties & Brier; the new “actually, the format is good” narrative; the expectations that get set for Team Homan; Kevin Koe and global warming are the two things that can stop Brendan Bottcher. Music: Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: http://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: We talk to USCA College Curling Committee Chair Gordon Maclean about the growth of college curling in the United States, the difference between the sport in the US & the rest of the world, how clubs can start college programs and the future of US college curling. Plus how curling statistics took him all … Continue reading Ep22: College Curling w/ Gordon Maclean →
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Topics: Quick recaps of the championships in the US, Scotland, Switzerland & Japan; the controversy surrounding Scotland’s Worlds rep; the delicate balance between selecting your country’s best team for Worlds and encouraging grassroots growth; the residency rules debate at the Scotties & Brier; pratfalls at the English men’s curling championship. Music: Tournament of Hearts by … Continue reading Ep21: We Fix the Scotties & Brier →
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Topics: We preview the 2019 curling championships in the USA, Scotland, Switzerland and Japan. Get info on how to watch and who to watch for as teams vie for World Championship berths. Music: Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: Jonathan’s mixed doubles abilities will result in Ryan eating haggis; Break-downs of the World Qualification Event & Continental Cup; Our Curling World Cup preview leads to a discussion of what European curling needs to promote growth; Jonathan on how curling beginners can advance their knowledge by watching the pros on TV. Links: Jonathan’s TV … Continue reading Ep19: Watch and Learn →
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Topics: Recaps of the World Junior B tournament where Jonathan’s England team made playoffs, the USA Challenger Round and the Canadian Open. Previews of the Continental Cup and the World Qualifier in New Zealand. Plus Ryan tries to get Jonathan to talk trash about all the teams he played against in juniors who are at … Continue reading Ep18: The Kids are Alright →
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Topics: The best curling Christmas gifts, what to watch for in curling in 2019, an in-depth discussion of the upcoming World Junior B tournament and our Professor of Peel lets us know what a bench coach actually does. Links Jonathan’s blog on Bench Coaching: https://www.jonathanhavercroft.com/curling/how-to-bench-coach-curling Music Merry Christmas from the Family by Robert Earl Keen: … Continue reading Ep17: Merry Curlmas from the Family →
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Topics: Jared Allen’s Olympic aspirations & the new U.S. Under 5 National Championship; Curling World Cup recap, TV coverage, attendance issues & format fixes; Canada Cup recap & Team Koe’s clock management mishap; Does thinking time per end do more harm than good? Music Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: The Ryan Fry situation, the European Championships and England’s rise to the A pool, funding for teams going to the World Qualification Event and previews of the Curling World Cup and Canada Cup. Plus we discuss interesting things Jonathan has gotten for winning bonspiels and bad beers. Music Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: … Continue reading Ep15: There’s No Drinking in Curling →
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Topics: We dissect the 2018 European Curling Championships and make predictions that are sure to be wrong. This includes a captivating 10-minute discussion of the B pool at Euros. Listen and impress your friends with your new-found knowledge of Hungarian curling. Music Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: Stephanie Senneker, skip of Team Senneker, discusses her curling beginnings on arena ice in Kalamazoo, how her current team came together, the challenges self-funded teams face in the U.S. and much more. Team Senneker on TESN: https://www.tesn.us/team-senneker.html Team Senneker on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamsenneker/ Team Senneker on Twitter: https://twitter.com/teamsenneker Music Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: … Continue reading Ep13: Arena Origins w/ Stephanie Senneker →
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Topics: We talk to former Team Great Britain Curling Head of Coaching Tony Zummack about his time with the Team GB program, his experiences at the Paralympics and Olympics and the future of high-level curling coaching. Jonathan and Ryan discuss the impact coaching can have at the grassroots level and the upcoming Pacific-Asia Curling Championships. … Continue reading Ep12: A Coaching Conversation w/ Tony Zummack →
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Topics: We look at curling TV coverage in the USA and Canada, its impact on the sport and the future of curling on TV and streaming services. Myles McNutt has written about the subject for The Curling News & A.V. Club and has a PhD in Media and Cultural Studies. Myles at Cultural Learnings: https://cultural-learnings.com/ … Continue reading Ep11: Turn On, Tune In, Take Out w/ Myles McNutt →
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Topics: We discuss the results and format from the first leg of the Curling World Cup and what we like and don’t like about the changes and lineup for the Continental Cup. Our Professor of Peel is worried high-performance curling will wind up killing grassroots curling in what he calls the Curl-pocalypse. We also debate … Continue reading Ep10: Curl-pocalypse Now →
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Topics: English women’s team skip Lisa Farnell educates us on European curling and how European teams qualify for the World Curling Championships. Jonathan and Lisa give us tips on how non-elite competitive teams can plan out their curling season. Plus news and notes from British/Scottish/English curling. Links Jonathan’s Season-Planning Blog Post: https://www.jonathanhavercroft.com/curling/2018/9/6/planning-out-your-season-in-four-easy-steps Music Tournament of … Continue reading Ep09: Stones & Scones w/ Lisa Farnell of English Curling →
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Topics: Curling World Cup announces teams, format & rules; team changes in Japan & Scotland; a preview of Curling Night in America. Plus Professor Havercroft schools us on five-rock free guard zone strategies and a “Elam Ending” for curling. Music Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: http://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: Our first guest! We talk to Mark Ngo from Oklahoma Curling Club about the growth their club has experienced since the Olympics. We also discuss the WCF World Cup coming to Omaha, Curling Night in America and Professor Havercroft helps find the best delivery style for you. Links Jonathan’s Delivery Blog Post: https://www.jonathanhavercroft.com/curling/2018/6/21/4owuw8v6i0z4vmovodnrp9hl2ig5jq Music … Continue reading Ep07: Hacks & Fracks w/ Oklahoma Curling Club’s Mark Ngo →
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Topics: Meeting John Shuster at Disney World, summer bonspiels, the end of the season, USA Arena Nationals, team changes and the sociology behind forming a successful curling team. Links Jonathan’s Team Formation & Dynamics Blog Post: https://www.jonathanhavercroft.com/curling/2018/5/16/team-formation-and-team-dynamics Music Tournament of Hearts by the Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics: Jonathan’s trip to Italy, Ryan’s trip to Durham, a big win for a U.S.-based curling team at the Players’ Championship, our idea for a curling version of the Davis Cup, whether there’s a “high performance bubble” looming, curling equipment that beginners actually need, Carhartt as high fashion and eating poutine at Disney World. Music … Continue reading Ep05: International Players Championship Anthem →
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Jonathan gives us a review of his trip to the 2018 World Men’s Curling Championship in Las Vegas. Read Jonathan’s blog about his trip here: https://www.jonathanhavercroft.com/curling/2018/4/12/what-happened-in-vegas Music Tournament of Hearts by The Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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Topics include ice conditions & U.S. TV coverage for Men’s Worlds in Vegas, the importance of broomstacking, social media tips for curling clubs and how to incorporate & retain new members after the Olympic rush. Links Jonathan’s New Members Blog Post: https://www.jonathanhavercroft.com/curling/2018/4/2/how-to-integrate-and-retain-new-members Music Tournament of Hearts by The Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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We talk Women’s and Men’s Worlds and Jonathan’s upcoming trip to Las Vegas. We also go over how to teach a beginner league and how to improve your release. The bad news is Ryan’s audio is trash, but the good news is it was Jonathan’s fault and it shouldn’t be an issue going forward. Links … Continue reading Ep02: We’re Positive You Can Handle This Podcast →
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The inaugural show discusses John Shuster’s Olympic gold that inspired the podcast and how we can help grow the game at the grassroots level. Plus we play a rousing game of “Are They Older than Jamie Koe.” Music Tournament of Hearts by The Weakerthans: https://open.spotify.com/track/1pkH2oFavgoVpxmXO9ylze
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