Throughout his long career with Gushue, Nichols has been a pivotal figure, contributing to the team’s impressive record, including one gold and four silver medals at the World Men’s Curling Championship, as well as six Brier titles. His experience and skill have also led him to claim 16 Grand Slam of Curling titles, 15 of which were won alongside Gushue, and one with Jeff Stoughton. This wealth of experience will undoubtedly be an asset to Dunstone’s team as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

Dunstone’s team has had a strong season, winning the AMJ Masters in September and finishing as runners-up in two other Grand Slam of Curling events. The addition of Nichols is seen as a strategic move to bolster their chances of defending their Brier title and securing a spot at the World Championships. “We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mark to the team,” said Dunstone, highlighting the enthusiasm surrounding this new partnership.

For Nichols, this transition represents a fresh start after a rewarding journey with Team Gushue. “After a very rewarding journey with Team Gushue, starting this new chapter with Team Dunstone feels like the perfect next step,” he remarked. This sentiment reflects a common theme in sports, where athletes often seek new challenges and opportunities to evolve their careers.

The current state of curling in Canada is competitive, with teams constantly vying for top honors. Nichols’ move to Dunstone’s team not only reshapes the dynamics within the team but also has broader implications for the competitive landscape. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, the integration of a seasoned player like Nichols could shift the balance of power in the sport.

This sequence of events matters significantly for those involved. For Nichols, it is a chance to redefine his role in a new environment and contribute to a team that is on the rise. For Dunstone and his team, the addition of a player with Nichols’ pedigree could enhance their performance and aspirations in the coming season.

As the curling community anticipates the next season, all eyes will be on how this new partnership unfolds. With Nichols’ extensive experience and Dunstone’s proven track record, fans can expect an exciting chapter in Canadian curling history.

The post Mark Nichols Joins Matt Dunstone’s Curling Team: A New Chapter Begins appeared first on News Canada.

On April 9, 2026, the championship features 22 teams from across Canada, including notable rinks such as Kurt Balderston’s team representing Alberta on the men’s side and Glenys Bakker’s rink for the ladies. Draw times are set for 10 a.m., 2:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. daily, providing ample opportunity for fans and players alike to engage with the competition.

The double-touch controversy intensified when Marc Kennedy was accused of breaking the rules by touching the granite of the stone after its release. This incident has prompted discussions about the nuances of curling rules and the skill involved in executing precise shots. Eriksson remarked, “At our level, just altering a stone by five centimetres on the other side, knowing how little you need to do to make that correction, is also a skill.” His comments highlight the fine line between skill and rule violations in the sport.

Despite the accusations, Eugene Hritzuk defended the integrity of the game, stating, “I don’t think there’s anything in that video that supports the idea that anything very wrong happened.” He further emphasized the spirit of curling, asserting, “Curling is a gentlemen’s game.” This perspective resonates with many in the curling community who value sportsmanship and fair play.

The current state of affairs sees the Canadian team, skipped by Matt Dunstone, facing challenges as they recently lost 9-6 to Sweden in the men’s world curling championship. This loss adds pressure on the Canadian teams competing in the Masters Championship, as they aim to restore national pride amidst the ongoing controversy.

The debate over double-touching is not new; it has been examined in the past and continues to evoke strong opinions among players and fans. As the championship progresses, the implications of this controversy will likely influence discussions around rule enforcement and the future of curling.

As the curling world watches closely, the outcome of the Masters Championship may serve as a pivotal moment for the sport, potentially leading to changes in how rules are interpreted and enforced. For those involved, the stakes are high, and the integrity of curling hangs in the balance.

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“At the end of the day, I’m in an industry that’s about playing hockey. That’s a pretty good gig. And I’ve had it my whole life,” said Carla MacLeod, reflecting on her career as she takes an indefinite leave from her coaching position with the Ottawa Charge to focus on her health.

MacLeod, who was diagnosed with breast cancer just a week into the Premier Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) season in late November, has shown remarkable resilience. Despite her diagnosis, she has only missed one game while undergoing treatment, scheduling her radiation sessions to avoid conflicts with her coaching duties.

The Ottawa Charge, currently holding a record of 13-11-1 and sitting fifth in the league standings, will now be led by interim head coach Haley Irwin during MacLeod’s absence. Irwin expressed the team’s understanding of the situation, stating, “I think, unfortunately, but fortunately maybe, it’s not new to us that Carla has had to step away. So we’ve been through it before as a group, and we know that we just continue to do what we do.”

The organization has expressed full support for MacLeod, requesting privacy for her family as she navigates this challenging period. “She remains in good spirits and is focused on her health and recovery,” the Ottawa Charge stated.

MacLeod, 43, from Spruce Grove, Alberta, has a rich history in women’s hockey. She previously coached the Czechia national women’s hockey team during the Milan Cortina Olympics, where they finished third in Pool A play. Additionally, she is a two-time Olympic gold medalist as a defender on Canada’s national team.

As the Charge continue their season with five games left, the team will undoubtedly feel the impact of MacLeod’s absence. However, her determination to coach despite her health challenges has inspired both her players and the broader hockey community.

With the support of her team and the hockey world, MacLeod’s journey through treatment will be closely followed. The next steps in her recovery and coaching career remain to be seen, but her legacy in the sport is firmly established.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for MacLeod’s return, but her health and recovery remain the priority for both her and the Ottawa Charge.

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Before the recent development, Eileen Gu was primarily known as a three-time Olympic gold medalist and a rising star in freestyle skiing. Her achievements at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy, solidified her status as the most decorated freeskier in Olympic history. However, her personal connections, particularly with high-profile figures like Prince Harry and Justin Trudeau, were not widely recognized.

The decisive moment came when Gu shared a photo on Instagram featuring herself alongside Trudeau and Prince Harry while on a ski lift at Big Sky Resort in Canada. This image quickly went viral, drawing attention not only to her athletic prowess but also to her unexpected friendships. The photo’s popularity marked a significant shift in how Gu is perceived, intertwining her athletic identity with her social connections.

The immediate effects of this revelation have been multifaceted. For Gu, it has opened doors to a broader audience, enhancing her visibility beyond the sports realm. For Trudeau and Prince Harry, who have maintained a friendship for years, this association with Gu adds a youthful and dynamic element to their public personas. The photo also highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and sports, showcasing how personal relationships can influence public perception.

Experts suggest that this shift could have lasting implications for Gu’s career. “Eileen Gu is not just an athlete; she is becoming a cultural icon,” noted a sports analyst. This perspective aligns with Gu’s own words, where she stated, “I’m the most decorated freeskier of all time, male or female,” emphasizing her commitment to excelling in her sport while navigating the complexities of fame.

Moreover, the backdrop of Gu’s personal life adds depth to this narrative. Just after the Olympics, she faced the loss of her grandmother, Feng Guozhen, which she poignantly referenced by promising to be brave, like her grandmother. This personal tragedy juxtaposed with her public triumphs creates a compelling story that resonates with many.

As the world continues to follow Gu’s journey, the implications of her friendships with figures like Trudeau and Prince Harry will likely evolve. The blending of her athletic achievements with her social connections could redefine her brand, making her a prominent figure not just in sports but in popular culture as well.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the depth of these friendships, but the public’s fascination with the trio suggests that this is just the beginning of a new chapter in Eileen Gu’s life.

The post Eileen Gu’s Unexpected Bond with Royals: A New Chapter appeared first on News Canada.

As the NHL season progresses, excitement builds around Cole Caufield of the Montreal Canadiens, who is just one goal away from reaching the significant milestone of 50 goals this season. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time in 36 years that a Canadiens player has reached this mark, a feat last accomplished by Stéphane Richer during the 1989-90 season.

Jack Hughes, the center for the New Jersey Devils and a former teammate of Caufield at USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, has expressed his admiration for Caufield’s scoring prowess. Hughes stated, “I can’t say I’m surprised, but 50 goals is a massive number in this league, so I’m definitely just impressed with what he’s done and how fast he’s done it.” This sentiment underscores the respect Hughes has for his friend’s talent.

Hughes’s support for Caufield comes at a time when he himself has been in the spotlight. Recently, he made headlines after losing several teeth during Team USA’s Olympic gold medal game against Canada, an incident that showcased his tenacity on the ice. Following this, Hughes debuted his new smile at the New York Yankees’ home opener, where he threw a ceremonial first pitch.

The ceremonial pitch was a light-hearted moment for Hughes, who humorously remarked, “I threw like 50 pitches like right before morning skate.” This blend of athleticism and personality has endeared him to fans beyond the hockey rink.

As Hughes continues to shine in his own right, the camaraderie between him and Caufield remains a focal point for fans. Their shared experiences at the National Team Development Program have forged a bond that extends beyond the ice, making Caufield’s impending milestone even more meaningful for Hughes.

Currently, the NHL community is abuzz with anticipation as Caufield approaches his 50th goal. The achievement would not only solidify his status as a top scorer but also serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication he has put into his game.

For Hughes, the success of his former teammate is a source of pride. He noted, “He has a knack for (scoring goals),” highlighting the natural talent that Caufield possesses. This acknowledgment from Hughes adds weight to the significance of Caufield’s achievement.

As the season unfolds, both players will continue to be pivotal figures in their respective teams. The New Jersey Devils and the Montreal Canadiens are looking to capitalize on the talents of Hughes and Caufield, respectively, as they strive for success in the league.

The journey of these two players reflects the competitive spirit of the NHL, where milestones are celebrated not just as personal achievements but as moments that resonate throughout the hockey community.

In summary, Jack Hughes’s admiration for Cole Caufield as he approaches his 50th goal is a reminder of the bonds formed in the world of sports, where achievements are celebrated collectively.

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What does Vic Rauter’s retirement mean for the future of sports broadcasting in Canada? After a remarkable 53-year career, Rauter has decided to step away from the microphone, leaving a significant void in the industry he has shaped for decades.

Rauter, who has been the voice of TSN’s curling coverage for over 40 years, joined the network in 1985, just a year after its launch. His tenure has been marked by his iconic catchphrase, “Make the final,” and a deep connection with curling fans across the nation.

Since 1986, Rauter has called every edition of the Canadian men’s and women’s curling championships, with the exception of 2006. His extensive experience includes nine Olympic Games and six FIFA World Cups, showcasing his versatility as a broadcaster.

Reflecting on his career, Rauter expressed gratitude for the opportunities he has had, stating, “When you’re a 19-year-old walking into a job at a radio station right out of college, you just can’t fathom this moment. But after an amazing 53 years on the air, I’ve made the decision that this is the right time to step away.” His final broadcast will be the Gold Medal Game of the LGT World Men’s Curling Championship.

Rauter’s impact on sports broadcasting extends beyond curling. He has contributed to the coverage of various sports, including MLS, NHL, and MLB, and has been involved in the Special Olympics since the mid-1970s. His legacy is widely recognized, with fellow broadcasters and athletes acknowledging his influence.

Shawn Redmond, a colleague, remarked, “Vic is an icon of sports broadcasting in Canada, and his exceptional work is a valuable example to any aspiring broadcaster who dreams of spending their career behind the mic.” Mike Harris, a former curler, added, “His legacy is going to be long lasting.”

As Rauter prepares to turn 72 in May, his retirement marks the end of an era in Canadian sports broadcasting. The question remains: who will fill the shoes of this beloved broadcaster?

Details remain unconfirmed regarding Rauter’s future plans post-retirement, but his contributions to the sports community will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

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At 32 years old, Peterman has already made a significant mark in the curling world. She won the Scotties Tournament of Hearts in 2016 while playing second for Chelsea Carey and represented Canada at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Beijing. Her recent participation in the 2026 Olympics in mixed doubles alongside her husband, Brett Gallant, further highlights her versatility and commitment to the sport, despite finishing with a 4-5 record.

The move to Team Einarson comes in the wake of significant changes within the team. Einarson’s squad recently parted ways with longtime third Val Sweeting, alternate Krysten Karwacki, and coach Reid Carruthers. In this new lineup, Shannon Birchard will shift to third stones, while Karlee Burgess will take on the second position. The restructuring aims to enhance the team’s performance after Einarson secured her fifth Scotties title in February 2026.

Peterman expressed her enthusiasm about joining the team, stating, “I’m really excited to team up with such a hardworking, talented group of women. I can’t wait to get on the ice, learn from each other, and see what we can build together.” This sentiment reflects a shared optimism as the team prepares for the upcoming season, with Peterman’s experience expected to play a crucial role in their success.

As Peterman integrates into Team Einarson, her previous experience with Lawes’ team will undoubtedly provide valuable insights. The dynamics of the team will be closely watched, especially with the inaugural season of Rock League approaching, where Peterman and Burgess will compete together on Maple United.

The curling community is eager to see how this new formation will perform on the ice. With Peterman’s proven track record and the fresh energy of the restructured team, expectations are high. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how the synergy develops among these talented athletes.

As the 2026-2027 season approaches, the anticipation builds not only for Team Einarson but also for Peterman’s career trajectory. With her age and experience, she stands at a pivotal moment, poised to make significant contributions to her new team.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional changes to the team’s strategy or lineup as they prepare for the competitive season ahead. However, one thing is clear: the addition of Jocelyn Peterman marks a new chapter for Team Einarson, and the curling world is watching closely.

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Caster Semenya, the two-time Olympic champion runner from South Africa, has expressed her disappointment with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) following its recent decision to ban transgender women athletes from competing in women’s events. This announcement, made on March 29, 2026, has reignited discussions surrounding gender and sports, particularly as the IOC’s new eligibility policy is set to take effect at the Los Angeles Olympics in July 2028.

The IOC’s ruling comes at a time when Semenya herself has faced significant challenges in her athletic career. Since 2019, she has been barred from competing in her preferred events due to regulations concerning testosterone levels, which exceed the typical female range. This ongoing situation has led to a prolonged legal battle, which Semenya has now concluded, marking the end of her seven-year challenge against sex eligibility rules.

In her criticism, Semenya pointedly addressed IOC President Kirsty Coventry, who hails from Zimbabwe. She stated, “Personally, for her as a leader, she’s an African, I’m sure she understands how, you know, we as Africans, we are coming from, as a global South, you know, you cannot control genetics.” This comment underscores the complexities of identity and biology in the context of sports.

Semenya further articulated her concerns about the decision’s implications for women in sports, asserting, “Obviously if you say the science, because we talk about science here, if the science is clear, show us who decided and don’t dress that as a lie because it’s a lie and we know because we’ve seen it so if we were to answer or confront Kirsty that’s how we gonna respond and we’ll respond strong as we are because it affects women.”

Her remarks reflect a broader sentiment among many athletes who feel that the IOC’s consultation process was superficial, describing it as a “tick box” exercise rather than a genuine effort to engage with the complexities of gender identity in sports.

As the debate continues, it is worth noting that no transgender women who transitioned from being born male competed at the 2024 Paris Summer Games, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the realm of competitive sports.

The IOC’s decision has not only affected Semenya but has also sparked a wider conversation about the rights of athletes and the evolving landscape of gender in sports. Reactions from various stakeholders are expected to unfold as the implications of this ruling become clearer.

As Semenya moves forward, her voice remains a powerful advocate for change, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and scientifically informed approach to sports eligibility. The dialogue surrounding this issue is far from over, and the impact of these decisions will resonate throughout the athletic community.

Details remain unconfirmed.

The post Sportsnet: Caster Semenya Criticizes IOC’s Transgender Athlete Decision Amid Ongoing Controversy appeared first on News Canada.

Throughout his career, Kingsbury has amassed an astonishing 100 World Cup victories, 143 podium finishes, and 29 Crystal Globes, establishing himself as one of the most successful athletes in the history of the sport. His contributions to freestyle skiing are not just numerical; they are a testament to his skill, dedication, and passion for the sport. Kingsbury has also earned five Olympic medals, including two golds, solidifying his status as a global icon in winter sports.

His journey began at the tender age of four in Saint-Sauveur, where he first learned to ski. This location holds a special significance for Kingsbury, as it is also where he chose to retire, completing a full circle in his career. Reflecting on his final competition, Kingsbury stated, “To have done my first race here in my life, like a mogul skiing competition and finishing on that, that’s kind of my full circle moment.” This sentiment encapsulates the emotional weight of his departure from the competitive scene.

In addition to his impressive medal tally, Kingsbury’s performance at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics was particularly memorable. He won a silver medal in the individual moguls and a gold in dual moguls, a fitting farewell to his Olympic career. His achievements at the Olympics and World Championships, where he secured 15 medals in 16 FIS World Championships, including nine golds, have set a benchmark for future athletes.

As Kingsbury steps back from the competitive spotlight, he has expressed no regrets about his career, stating, “I have no regrets about my career. For me, it’s already mission accomplished.” This reflects a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment that many athletes aspire to achieve. His focus now shifts toward family and personal projects, including plans to establish a ski camp for kids in Japan, which highlights his desire to give back to the sport that has given him so much.

Family plays a crucial role in Kingsbury’s life, especially following the birth of his son, Henrik, in August 2024. He mentioned, “Winning (duals) this year, and doing it in front of my whole family, my son (Henrik), that’s number one, knowing also that it was my last performance.” This statement underscores the importance of family support in his career and the joy of sharing his final moments in competition with them.

As the skiing community reflects on Kingsbury’s legacy, the impact of his retirement will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. His achievements have inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams in freestyle skiing. While the future of the sport may be uncertain without his presence, his influence will continue to resonate.

Looking ahead, Kingsbury’s plans to engage with the next generation of skiers through his ski camp in Japan signal his commitment to nurturing talent and promoting the sport. As he embarks on this new chapter, the skiing world watches with anticipation, eager to see how he will shape the future of freestyle skiing beyond competition.

The post Mikaël Kingsbury: A Legendary Career Comes to an End appeared first on News Canada.

What does the new mockumentary series about Ben Johnson reveal about the complexities of his legacy? ‘Hate the Player: The Ben Johnson Story’ aims to provide a humorous yet insightful look at the life of the Canadian sprinter who once held the title of the world’s fastest man.

Directed by Corey Bowles, the six-part series premiered on Paramount+ on March 27, 2026, and stars Shamier Anderson as Ben Johnson. The show delves into Johnson’s rise to fame, including his record-breaking 9.79 seconds in the 100-meter sprint at the 1988 Olympics, and his subsequent fall from grace after testing positive for steroids.

Johnson’s story is one of triumph and tragedy, and the series seeks to reframe it in a light that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. As Bowles noted, “There’s a lot of stories out there and a lot of pitched ideas about what his story was,” highlighting the various narratives that have emerged over the years.

The mockumentary format allows for a satirical exploration of the ethically questionable coaching and performance-enhancing cover-ups that have plagued the world of athletics. Bowles expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “It was pretty much in the very first page, half way down, that I thought I have got to be a part of this, it’s so good.”

The series does not shy away from the darker aspects of Johnson’s career, aiming to capture a version of him that is both polished and unflinching. As Bowles remarked, “This one just sort of captured a version of him that put a shine to his name but also doesn’t pull any punches on what went down.”

By tackling a subject that has been a significant part of sports history, the series offers a cathartic and humorous twist on a narrative that many thought was set in stone. Bowles praised the creators for their ability to take a monumental event from their youth and give it a fresh perspective, saying, “They did such a good job at taking something that was so big in our youth and a big part of sports and identity in world sports and gave it such a funny, cathartic, interesting twist, I was just like, this is awesome.”

As viewers tune in to the series on GameTV and Paramount+, they are invited to reconsider the legacy of Ben Johnson—not just as a disgraced athlete, but as a complex figure whose story continues to resonate in the world of sports.

While the series has generated significant buzz, details remain unconfirmed regarding its reception and the potential for further exploration of Johnson’s life in future episodes.

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