Briane Harris Faces Uncertainty with Team Kerri Einarson as Scotties Tournament of Hearts Approaches
Briane Harris, a longtime lead for Team Kerri Einarson, is navigating an uncertain future with the team as they prepare for the 2025 Scotties Tournament of Hearts (STOH). The uncertainty stems from a recent development regarding Harris' doping suspension, which had been imposed on her in February 2024. Following a successful appeal, Harris' suspension has been lifted, bringing relief to both her and her team. Team Einarson expressed their support for Harris in a statement, acknowledging the immense stress she and her family endured throughout the lengthy appeal process.
Despite Harris' vindication, Team Einarson's lineup for the upcoming competition does not currently include her or her regular front-end partner, Shannon Birchard, who is sidelined for the season due to a knee injury. The team’s current roster consists of Kerri Einarson, Val Sweeting, new second Karlee Burgess, Krysten Karwacki at lead, and coach Reid Carruthers. Team Einarson, who has dominated the STOH in recent years, having secured four consecutive championships from 2020 to 2023, has already earned a spot in the 2025 Scotties, set to take place in Thunder Bay, Ont.
Team Einarson is treating their participation in this week’s Masters Grand Slam of Curling event as an opportunity to prepare for the upcoming Scotties. However, the final decision regarding Harris' role on the team will be made after further discussions within the group. The Guelph event will allow the team to assess their performance with the current lineup, which includes several new players and others who have rotated in and out throughout the season.
Harris has been a key figure for Team Einarson throughout her career, notably playing a crucial role in their 2021 victory over Rachel Homan’s Ontario team to secure their second consecutive title. Harris' doping appeal centered around a banned substance, Ligandrol, which was unknowingly transferred to her by her husband. Harris, who is currently pregnant with her second child, was cleared of any wrongdoing, and the ruling has allowed her to return to competitive play.
As Team Einarson moves forward, the focus will be on balancing the potential inclusion of Harris—now cleared of doping allegations—with their ongoing preparations for the Scotties Tournament of Hearts. The team will continue to evaluate their roster and lineup, with hopes of maintaining their championship pedigree for the upcoming season’s challenges.
