Team Brad Gushue made headlines on October 10, 2024, with the surprising announcement that second E.J. Harnden would be leaving the St. John’s, N.L.-based curling team effective immediately… Read full details below…🥌🥌🥌🥌🥌
Harnden, who is a 2014 Olympic champion, had joined Gushue’s rink in May 2022 after the departure of Brett Gallant and played a key role in the team’s successes, including back-to-back national men’s curling championships.
The news release confirming Harnden’s exit indicated that both he and the team had mutually agreed to part ways, though no specific reason for the change was provided. This decision was particularly striking, given the rarity of in-season roster changes among elite curling teams, especially for a high-profile group like Team Gushue. The timing of the announcement was notable, coming just days after Gushue’s team reached the final of the HearingLife Tour Challenge at the season-opening Grand Slam in Charlottetown, only to be defeatedby Scotland’s Bruce Mouat with a score of 10-3.
In a statement, Gushue expressed gratitude for Harnden’s contributions, stating, “We are grateful for E.J.’s unwavering commitment and the tremendous impact he has made on our team.” He emphasized the amicable nature of the separation, asserting that it was “the best decision for both sides.” Harnden also reflected positively on his time with the team, stating, “It has been an incredible journey with Team Gushue. I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
The announcement of Harnden’s departure raises questions about the team’s future and its dynamics moving forward. Gushue, who has been a mainstay in Canadian curling, will need to find a suitable replacement quickly, especially since the rink has already secured its spot in the upcoming 2025 Montana’s Brier and the Olympic Trials next season. The team indicated that a decision regarding Harnden’s successor would be made in the coming weeks.
Before joining Gushue’s team, Harnden had an impressive career with a rink skipped by Brad Jacobs in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. That team won the Brier in 2013 and clinched gold at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics. Harnden’s departure marks a significant transition for Gushue’s team, which had previously enjoyed stability and success.
The Gushue team has enjoyed considerable achievements over the past few years, and the loss of Harnden could alter its chemistry. He was known for his work ethic and passion for the sport, qualities that have significantly contributed to the team’s success during his tenure. The team’s ability to adapt and bring in a new player who can fill Harnden’s shoes will be critical as they look to maintain their competitive edge.
As the curling season progresses, all eyes will be on Team Gushue to see how they respond to this unexpected change. The upcoming weeks will be crucial not just for finding a new player, but also for the team’s overall strategy and cohesion as they aim for further success in national and international competitions. Harnden’s exit, while surprising, presents an opportunity for both him and the team to pursue new paths, and curling fans will be eager to see how this unfolds.
