Curling looked a little different this year. Well, a lot different actually.
With the COVID-19 pandemic unfolding in March of 2020, almost everything changed for everyone – beyond the rink, we sincerely hope that you and your loved ones have been able to stay safe and healthy through these troubled times. Our hearts and love go out to all those who have suffered such keen losses as a result of the global situation. We have been reminded that for as much as we love our sport, ultimately, it is people and community who make curling and life everything that it is.
Our first thank you this year is to the awe-inspiring front line workers who have risked so much to protect our lives and safety. Writing this in the summer of 2021, we recognize that it is your courageous, tireless effort that makes it possible to consider returning to our lives, and to our sport. Thank you.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors. In a time where businesses have suffered unprecedented strife, you chose to support our team and our development. This choice is recognized and honoured – thank you for empowering our growth as athletes and people. We thank our coach, parents, friends, and wider community for your support. You truly make the difference.
For Team Bakker, the pandemic brought many unique challenges. Although a few events went forward in the fall, we were shut down in the middle of November for the majority of the remaining season. As the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention – and given the situation created by the pandemic, we were inspired to innovate and find new ways to develop and grow as athletes.
We actively engaged in fitness training and testing, sports mental performance training, communication education, team systems development, and strategy sessions. Our team bonded through online calls and games, finding joy and comfort in our relationships with one another. We reflected on the lessons of the pandemic and made plans to capitalize on curling opportunities, should they open up.
We are incredibly grateful for our on-ice competitions in the fall, placing as semi-finalists at the Okotoks U20 Spiel and finalists at the Leduc U20 Spiel. We were honoured to be invited as the sole junior team to the Okotoks WCT Event, and had been scheduled to play both Jennifer Jones and Rachel Homan. Unfortunately, the province of Alberta shut down on after the Friday evening draw, and thus we were unable to finish the weekend. In the early spring, we had the opportunity to be back on the ice at the Okotoks Curling Club – a reminder to maximize every moment of ice time to further team development and success. We are thankful for our continued involvement as Curling Alberta Excel Team Program athletes and for Curling Alberta’s tireless work to provide opportunities for learning and growth.
We are looking forward with optimism and strength. Our experience this season continually taught us the importance of resilience and adaptability. We are excited for the adventures of the fall, as we work towards our ultimate maximum as athletes and teammates. We are so grateful to be on this journey with you.
