Canada’s Curling GOAT: Jennifer Jones on Passion Over Accolade
In a recent interview with Olympics.com, Jennifer Jones, the celebrated Canadian curler and Sochi 2014 Olympic champion, reflected on her journey in the sport, emphasizing her deep passion for curling over the accolades she has amassed. With a remarkable career that includes two world titles, six Scotties Tournament of Hearts victories, and a multitude of Grand Slam wins, Jones has firmly established herself as a leading figure in women’s curling. Yet, as she prepares for her second Olympic appearance in Beijing 2022, she stresses that her legacy is more about love for the game than just records and awards.
Jones, voted Canada’s greatest female curler by her peers in 2019, expressed gratitude for the recognition but highlighted that she hopes to be remembered for her dedication to the sport and its future. “It’s not about the accolades or the awards; it’s the whole love of the game,” she stated. This perspective, she believes, is crucial for inspiring future generations of curlers, both in Canada and globally.
Reflecting on her Olympic gold medal win in Sochi, Jones described it as the pinnacle of her career. The emotional weight of that moment is something she cherishes deeply, particularly the experience of standing on the podium alongside her family and witnessing the Canadian flag being raised. “It’s the hardest thing to achieve, especially from Canada,” she noted, as the path to the Olympics is fraught with challenges and trials.
As she gears up for Beijing 2022, Jones will join a seasoned team, including vice-skip Kaitlyn Lawes and lead Dawn McEwen, both of whom were part of her 2014 gold medal-winning squad. The team boasts a total of ten Olympic appearances, offering a blend of experience and fresh energy, with Jocelyn Peterman making her Olympic debut. Jones remarked on the importance of this combination, saying, “We’re trying to create one unbelievable plan for Beijing, where we use all of our experience and excitement.”
Despite her demanding curling career, Jones balances her athletic life with a full-time career as a lawyer and her role as a mother of two young children. The challenge of juggling family and sport is something she has navigated with the support of her family, particularly her mother, who has played a significant role in helping care for her children while Jones competes. “Without that support, there’s no way that we could do it,” she acknowledged, emphasizing the importance of family in her journey.
Jones also shares how her children inspire her to strive for excellence. She wants them to see the importance of hard work and perseverance. “They truly believe that anything is possible; if you work hard, your dreams will come true,” she said, noting the excitement and pride they express when she competes. This mindset has fostered a supportive environment where her children understand the value of commitment and determination.
In preparing for the Olympics, Jones has adopted a philosophy of enjoying the experience and cherishing every moment. Drawing from her upbringing, where gratitude and a positive outlook were instilled in her by her parents, she believes this perspective helps her in both curling and motherhood. “We’re going to have fun at the Olympics. We’re going to enjoy all the little moments regardless of what happens,” she explained, indicating that her focus extends beyond competition to appreciating the journey
As the leader of her team, Jones is keenly aware of her role in shaping the team’s atmosphere. “I want to make sure I set the tone of having fun and enjoying it,” she stated, highlighting her commitment to fostering a positive environment during the intense competition of the Olympics. Her approach encapsulates her belief that if the team can enjoy the process, success will naturally follow.
In her final thoughts, Jones reflects on her legacy and the impact she hopes to have on the sport of curling. While she has achieved much, her true aspirations lie in nurturing a love for the game in others and setting a precedent for future athletes. “If I can have any impact on the future of curling, that’s probably what means the most to me,” she said, underscoring her desire to influence the sport positively for the next generation.
As Jennifer Jones heads into Beijing 2022, she carries with her not just the weight of expectations but a profound passion for curling that transcends the medals and titles. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and the belief that the true essence of sport lies in the love for the game and the bonds it creates.
