Overview
This newsletter shares updates from Phase 2 of the Partners Transforming Curling project as research teams across Canada continue community-engaged work focused on inclusion, equity, diversity, and access in curling. It highlights ongoing evaluations, event-based research, and planning efforts connected to upcoming national and international curling events.
From research to action
Phase 2 of the project continues to focus on how IDEA initiatives are experienced across curling environments and how organizations are working to support inclusive participation. Across Canada, research teams are collaborating with local partners, collecting data, and evaluating programs to strengthen inclusive practice in curling clubs and events.
Updates from the research teams
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo team has been active across multiple events and initiatives. Their work includes on-site observation and data collection at the Grand Slam of Curling in Guelph, collaboration with IDEA committees at Guelph Curling Club and K-W Granite, and evaluation of the Out on the Ice LGBTQ+ curling program. They are also reviewing the pilot Ontario Curling IDEA Certification process, studying youth engagement initiatives such as Girls Rock at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Thunder Bay, assessing the Coaches Rock women’s coaching program, and collecting data on introductory curling experiences through Ready to Rock in Alberta. In partnership with Nova Scotia Curling and the Cape Breton University team, they are also preparing for Olympic Trials–related outreach.
Cape Breton University
The Cape Breton University team is conducting interviews with IDEA leaders across Nova Scotia and evaluating Try Curling initiatives in collaboration with the Sydney Curling Club. They are also collecting data at the New Canadian Curling Club, a community storytelling event held at Neptune Theatre and supported by Nova Scotia Curling, Curling Canada, and the Halifax Trials Host Committee.
St. Thomas University
The St. Thomas University team is examining how partner organizations present IDEA-related programming on their websites. This includes reviewing how images and written content reflect commitments to inclusion, accessibility, and belonging. Preliminary analysis has now been completed.
Looking ahead
Dr. Simon Barrick from Cape Breton University is serving as Research Director for the 2025 Olympic Trials Host Committee, which is developing IDEA-focused programming for Fall 2025.
Whats next
A full partners meeting is being planned for mid-June. At this gathering, the team will share emerging Phase 2 findings, gather partner input on directions for Phase 3, and celebrate the IDEA initiatives taking place across the country. An invitation will be shared soon.
Get involved
Partners Transforming Curling welcomes ideas, invitations, and suggestions from collaborators. If your organization has hosted an IDEA program or participated in related events, the team would love to connect and learn from your experiences. Please contact Dr. Heather Mair.
For a copy of the full report, please email Dr. Heather Mair