WINNIPEG — The Heather Curling Club has unveiled the Regional Performance Hub & Development Centre, an advanced training facility for Manitoba’s high-performance and emerging curlers.
Developed through a collaboration between CurlManitoba, Curling Canada, and other stakeholders, the hub marks a significant step forward in Canadian curling.
The facility boasts two state-of-the-art ice sheets equipped with tools like video analysis, smart brooms, and championship-grade stones.
“This facility is transforming how Manitoba curlers train and prepare for competition,” said Craig Baker, executive director of CurlManitoba, in a release. “With dedicated championship-quality ice and all-day access to the facility, our athletes are better equipped to compete and win on the national and world stages.”
Key athletes, including Team Chelsea Carey and Team Matt Dunstone, have already started training at the facility, which also accommodates recreational leagues on its six additional sheets of ice.
The ice is maintained by a team led by chief ice technician Greg Ewasko.
“Having dedicated practice ice at the Heather is essential in improving all aspects of our game,” said Team Kaitlyn Lawes vice-skip, Selena Njegovan. “The amazing ice conditions Greg and his team have created allow us to focus on consistent throws, which helps build the confidence needed to compete at the highest level. We’ve needed a facility like this in Manitoba for a long time, and I am so excited that we finally have it.”
The centre is part of Curling Canada’s broader strategy to establish a nationwide network of training hubs, aiming to maintain Canada’s dominance in curling while developing the next generation of champions.
Officials are optimistic that the model will be replicated across the country, providing consistent access to top-tier training and resources for curlers at all levels.
