Report summary
This Phase 1 report from Partners Transforming Curling examines how Canadian curling clubs and sport stakeholders are responding to social, cultural, and demographic changes in the sport. Using interviews with club volunteers, managers, board members, and sport administrators across Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Quebec, the study explores the key forces shaping curling today, how organizations are adapting, and what challenges remain. The findings highlight both the progress that has been made and the work still needed to create a more inclusive, equitable, and diverse future for curling.
What did we do?
Phase 1 focused on understanding how curling organizations are experiencing and responding to change. Data were collected through interviews with stakeholders across multiple regions and roles within the sport.
How did we do it?
The research team reviewed project background materials and conducted in-depth interviews with curling stakeholders. Interview transcripts were analyzed to identify recurring themes. Detailed methods and a sample interview guide are provided in the full report.
What did we find?
The analysis revealed four interconnected themes that explain how change is being experienced and managed across curling in Canada:
1. Awakening to change: we must continue to evolve
Participants recognized that curling must adapt to shifting social norms, demographics, and expectations. There is growing awareness that maintaining the status quo will limit the sport’s future.
2. Change in practice: building a legacy of adaptation
Many clubs and organizations are experimenting with new programs, formats, and engagement strategies to respond to changing community needs and participation patterns.
3. Myth of resistance
While curling is often viewed as resistant to change, the findings show that many organizations are open to adaptation but face structural, financial, and cultural barriers that slow progress.
4. Regional differences: change looks different here
How change is experienced and implemented varies by region, reflecting differences in community context, resources, and local culture.
What this means for curling
Together, these findings show that curling is already changing, but unevenly. Continued adaptation, shared learning across regions, and intentional strategies are needed to ensure that change supports inclusion, accessibility, and long-term sustainability.
For a copy of the full report, please email Dr. Heather Mair
Back to Partners Transforming Curling
Next steps
The Phase 1 findings directly informed Phase 2 of the project, which focuses on knowledge mobilization. Phase 2 translates research into actionable strategies and resources for curling organizations and stakeholders across the Canadian sport system.