Providence Pilots announce launch of curling program

Providence College continues to expand their sport offerings.

The school announced they would be launching a men’s and women’s curling program this fall.

“Curling is a sport built on community, tradition, and excellence — and that fits perfectly with who we are,” Providence director of athletics Joel Coursey said in a Providence news release.

“The excitement around curling in Southeast Manitoba is undeniable. After seeing Steinbach host the Grand Slam of Curling just last week, it’s clear this region is passionate about the sport. We’re proud to bring collegiate curling to Providence and to Otterburne.”

The Manitoba Colleges Athletic Association will have curling as a tournament sport, with the Providence teams taking advantage of local leagues and bonspiels throughout the season to stay sharp. The winner of the Manitoba collegiate championship will advance to the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association national championships.

“For our student-athletes, this is the ultimate motivator,” Coursey said.

“We’re launching with a real championship pathway — conference competition that leads to a chance to compete for a national title. That’s a big statement for a new program, and it’s a huge opportunity for the young curlers we’ll bring to Providence.”

Providence already has a strong curling history. Jordan Peters, the 2020 Canadian and world junior curling champion, attended Providence while picking up gold medals around the world.

“As an alumnus, seeing Providence get involved in the sport means a lot to me,” Peters said.

“Curling is a game that teaches patience, discipline, and teamwork while building respect and strong character, values that fit naturally within Providence’s mission to develop Christ-centered leaders.”

The school is now searching for a coach to lead the curling program.

RRC Returns to MCAC

More great news came for the Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference this week, as Red River College announced Jan. 18 they will be returning to competition.

“The addition of RRC is very important for collegiate sports in Manitoba,” Coursey said in a MCAC news release.

“We are trying to grow the conference in size and national competitiveness and help retain the talented athletes we have in Manitoba. We currently offer a great athletic program and it will only improve with the addition of strong members like RRC.”

Red River has been on a complete hiatus since 2020, but will return to play basketball, volleyball and in the first season of cross-country. The school’s students’ association will be managing operating and funding the teams.

“It has been exciting working with the leadership at RRC, hearing their passion and vision for their program,” Coursey said.

“They worked hard to bring their varsity program back and you can see how important it is to them.”

The Rebels return to the basketball ranks would open the door for Manitoba teams to compete in the CCAA national championships.