Curling Canada’s CEO, Nolan Thiessen, advocates for a forward-thinking approach to the sport, urging stakeholders to consider new perspectives. With the start of an Olympic cycle and a significant government investment in high-performance sports, coupled with the release of the Future of Sport in Canada Commission report, Thiessen sees an opportune moment to reimagine the future of curling.
Expressing a desire for increased participation and competitive success, Thiessen emphasizes the importance of a systemic approach over a results-driven mindset. He believes that fostering meaningful conversations is key to progress, aiming for a larger curling community, improved skill levels, enhanced facility utilization, and memorable experiences for all involved.
Curling Canada has launched the “Future of Canadian Curling” campaign, outlining a comprehensive seven-point plan for various stakeholders within the sport. Thiessen will also address potential organizational shifts on the association’s website in the coming months.
Highlighting the need for a unified purpose, Thiessen underscores the importance of aligning goals and achieving shared success. By addressing concerns raised in the Future of Sport Commission report regarding fragmentation and lack of direction, Curling Canada aims to create a cohesive vision for the sport’s future.
Emphasizing the significance of strong community identification, Thiessen notes that individuals who proudly declare themselves as “curlers” are more likely to engage with the sport long-term. He stresses the role of clubs in providing positive experiences that attract and retain participants, emphasizing the need for memorable interactions and continuous improvement within the curling community.
While acknowledging the challenges of facility upgrades, Thiessen emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals within the system to adopt a forward-thinking approach. By treating clubs as businesses and encouraging future-focused strategies, Curling Canada aims to enhance the overall curling experience and drive long-term growth within the sport.
