About

Coaching philosophy

My coaching philosophy is centred on the holistic development of athletes as people.

No other sport relies on teamwork in the way that curling does; it is the successful interdependence of each player on their teammates that defines championship rinks. Moreover, few other sports have the tradition of sportsmanship that is so exemplified by the game of curling, even at the highest levels.

Like other late specialization sports such as golf, success at curling requires significant mastery of a range of athletic skills. However, the teamwork that is unique to curling also requires the development of social, physical and psychological skills within each player, so that as a team the athletes can play - and succeed - together. I am committed to the development of all of these skills, in a holistic way, with each and every athlete.

One must never forget that curling is, above all, a game, and it is fun to play. Teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect for both one's teammates, and one's opponents, are guiding principles in the program's development of each individual athlete. As a coach, I try to instil these values with the athletes through both instruction and by example when playing the game alongside them.

I am personally thrilled when an athlete masters a technical skill, executes a great shot, advises a teammate, or involves the entire rink to strategize shot selection in a difficult end. Demonstrating these abilities gives a reason to celebrate the athletes' teamwork, self-confidence, responsibility, and dedication, lessons which we can all hope will enrich their lives in future years.