West Central Curling Academy launches to support rural athletes

By Kate Winquist

A new regional training initiative aims to strengthen curling development across west-central Saskatchewan with the launch of the West Central Curling Academy.

Organized by Lexie Adamson, the academy will offer a series of sessions beginning in August 2026, bringing together junior curlers, coaches and mentors in a collaborative learning environment designed to improve skills and build connections across rural communities.

Adamson said the program was created to address gaps in access and communication that can limit opportunities for young athletes in smaller centres.

“I see a huge need for collaborative approach to development and more encouragement towards our next generation of curlers,” she said. “We have a lot of rural junior curlers that do not end up finding teams due to logistics difficulties, lack of communication within the province, and not being able to connect with other like-minded curlers. Yes, we have some amazing programs within clubs, or school teams – but we can do more on a broader scale.”

The academy’s mission is to empower rural curlers through shared learning and mentorship, while encouraging collaboration and creating opportunities that ensure the game continues to thrive in local communities.

The program is structured as a series of camp-style sessions rather than a weekly commitment, a format Adamson said is intended to make participation more accessible.

“We want this academy to be more of a camp type environment that is not a weekly commitment. Make it as attainable as possible. Meet new curlers while working on your individual skills,” she said.

Six sessions are scheduled between August 2026 and January 2027, beginning with a virtual evening session Aug. 9, followed by in-person events hosted at curling clubs in Swift Current, Kindersley and Rosetown.

In addition to athlete development, the academy will include a focus on coach and mentor education, recognizing the role volunteers play in sustaining local programs.

“We want to help mentors, coaches, and parents at this academy as well,” Adamson said. “We have a lot of volunteers that help coach our junior curlers at clubs, but they are not always up to date with today’s practices, so this academy will be a place that both curlers and coaches can learn from those that are and gain not only knowledge but confidence.”

The academy features a roster of experienced coaches and mentors from across the region and is supported by sponsors including Western Sales and Olson Insurance Group Ltd. Co-operators.

For more information or to request a registration package, interested participants can contact Adamson at westcentralcurls@gmail.com.