Team Announcement Regarding Joanne Courtney
After the 2021/22 season, Joanne Courtney will be taking some time away from curling to focus on her family and career. Although we will greatly miss Joanne on our team, we are excited about her next chapter. Jo has been the most incredible teammate during these past 8 years and we will forever cherish her friendship. “She is one of the most dedicated, positive and hard-working people I have ever met,” Rachel said. “I will forever be grateful for the memories we shared on and off the ice. It was an amazing ride and although I’m sad she is leaving I’m so happy for her to make new goals and watch her thrive in her next ambitions.”
“It is bittersweet to be stepping away from the team at the end of the season and taking a break from curling,” said Joanne. “When I got the call 8 years ago, I could not have imagined how much joining Team Homan would change my life. Playing at the highest level in the sport I love has been a dream come true. The pursuit of excellence requires relentless effort, and I am proud of my personal growth through my time on this team. I will continue to be inspired by the drive and dedication of my teammates as I step away from the game.”
On Team Homan, Joanne elevated our team to the next level and revolutionized sweeping in the women’s game. Together we won our first Scotties with Joanne in 2017, winning the World Championship that same year where we went undefeated. We were able to achieve a lifetime goal of competing at the Olympics and have had quite the ride competing on the world stage. Our team also won most of our Grand Slam victories, 8 out of 11, curling with Joanne.
“I have a hard time coming up with the right words. I am really going to miss her, as a teammate, shotmaker, and of course sweeper,” said Emma. “She is the type of person who brings positive energy and is so fun to be around, win or lose. I am definitely grateful for all the years we had together, all we have accomplished, and our life-long friendship.”
“It has been a wild ride and I cannot thank Team Homan enough for letting me join,” said Joanne. “While the big wins will be burned in my brain forever, it will be the little moments of camaraderie that I will miss the most. I cannot wait to assume the ‘fangirl’ role for my wonderful teammates as I look to create more balance in my life and pursue new goals.”
In terms of a new team member, we will take some time to reflect on what the team lineup will be next season. For now, we want to focus on the events ahead and enjoy our last season with Joanne. Please join our team in wishing Jo all the best off the ice after this season - you will forever be a big piece of our story!