Team Christina Black and Team Kelly Knapp Continue Strong Seasons with Bonspiel Victories
As the 2024-25 curling season intensifies, two Canadian teams have been making waves with impressive victories at major bonspiels, further cementing their places as contenders on the national scene.
Team Christina Black Dominates at the Stu Sells Brantford Classic
Team Christina Black from Halifax extended their remarkable season with a dominant performance at the Stu Sells Brantford Classic, securing their fourth bonspiel victory of the year. The team, currently ranked fifth in Canada, finished the event with an undefeated 6-0 record, culminating in a 7-4 win over Team Breanna Rozon from Oshawa in the final.
Led by skip Christina Black, the team has been a force in women's curling this season. Veteran Jill Brothers, along with returning players Jenn Baxter and Karlee Everist, have been integral to the team's success. Their strong showing in Brantford follows earlier triumphs at the Tour Challenge Tier 2 in Charlottetown and a solid quarterfinals run at last week's Grand Slam in St. John's.
Looking ahead, Team Black is focused on the Nova Scotia provincial playdowns, with the ultimate goal of securing a spot at the 2024 Tournament of Hearts in February. Their consistent performance and ability to close out tournaments will make them a team to watch in the coming months.
Team Sam Mooibroek Takes Men's Brantford Classic Title
In the men’s competition, Team Sam Mooibroek from Whitby added their name to the list of bonspiel champions with a victory at the Stu Sells Brantford Classic. The team, ranked eighth in Canada, clinched the title with a 6-4 win over Kingston’s Team Jonathan Beuk in the final. Team Mooibroek’s win marks another step forward in what has been a steadily improving season for the squad, which has been gaining momentum throughout the year.
Team Kelly Knapp Wins Fifth Bonspiel of the Season
Meanwhile, Team Kelly Knapp from Regina continued their strong run with a decisive victory at the S3 Group Curling Stadium Series in Swift Current. The team defeated Team Steve Laycock 9-4 in the final, securing their fifth bonspiel win of the season. With a current ranking of 19th in Canada, Team Knapp has been particularly focused on Saskatchewan-based events, where they have thrived in recent months.
Team Knapp's success this season builds on their strong provincial presence, having already secured the Saskatchewan provincial title in 2023. With another strong season under their belts, they are now considered one of the top contenders for the provincial crown again this year. Their ultimate aim is to return to the national stage and potentially make a push for a Brier appearance.
International Success for Team Xenia Schwaller
In other bonspiel action, Team Xenia Schwaller from Switzerland claimed the women's title at the S3 Group Curling Stadium Series in Swift Current. Their victory highlights the international competitiveness of the event, with teams from all over the world vying for titles and recognition.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, both Team Christina Black and Team Kelly Knapp are setting their sights on their respective provincial playdowns, with aspirations of competing on Canada’s biggest curling stages. With each team continuing to build momentum and sharpen their skills, the road to the Tournament of Hearts and beyond promises to be filled with high-level competition and thrilling performances.
As these teams continue to dominate on the national circuit, their growing list of bonspiel victories will only add to their confidence and experience heading into the latter stages of the season.
