Significant Shifts in Saskatchewan Women's Curling Landscape
The women's curling scene in Saskatchewan is undergoing substantial transformation with two major announcements that will reshape competitive teams for upcoming seasons. These developments mark a changing of the guard in one of Canada's most passionate curling provinces.
Veteran Skip Jolene Campbell Announces Retirement
Following a successful season that saw her team capture the provincial championship and compete at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts, veteran skip Jolene Campbell has declared her retirement from women's curling. The announcement came through an official team statement that highlighted Campbell's significant contributions to the sport.
"Jolene has made the decision to retire from women's curling," the statement read. "Her leadership, passion, and commitment to the game have left a lasting mark on this team and the curling community. We are so grateful for everything she has poured into this sport."
Campbell's distinguished career includes skipping Saskatchewan at the national women's curling championship on two occasions, with her first appearance coming in 2016. She also played third for skip Chelsea Carey in 2022 and served as an alternate with Amber Holland from 2010 to 2012. During that period with Team Holland, Campbell was part of the squad that won Scotties gold in 2011 before claiming silver at the world championships.
Provincial Champion Skylar Ackerman Returns to Competition
While one prominent skip steps away from the game, another is making her return to competitive curling. Skylar Ackerman, Saskatchewan's 2024 provincial champion, has announced her intentions to return after a two-year hiatus while attending university.
Ackerman's comeback includes significant roster moves as she has recruited two of Campbell's former teammates for her new squad. Robyn Silvernagle and Rachel Big Eagle will join Team Ackerman, playing third and second respectively, while Mary Little completes the lineup at lead position.
This represents a notable shift for Silvernagle, who previously skipped Saskatchewan at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts in 2019, 2020, and 2023. Last season, she made the transition to third with Campbell's team and will maintain that position moving forward with Ackerman. Interestingly, Ackerman served as the alternate for Silvernagle at the 2023 Scotties, creating a full-circle connection between the two players.
Team Reconfigurations Across the Province
The roster changes extend beyond these two high-profile teams. Ackerman previously curled with Ashley Thevenot, Taylor Stremick, and Kaylin Skinner, who have since formed their own team skipped by Thevenot. Meanwhile, Dayna Demmans, who played lead for Team Campbell last season, is reportedly seeking new opportunities within the curling community.
The team statement from Campbell's squad acknowledged the end of an era while looking toward the future: "While this version of Team Campbell is coming to an end, the friendships, memories, and pride we share will always remain. Thank you to our fans, sponsors, families, and everyone who supported us along the way. Here's to new beginnings and what's ahead."
These transitions come at a pivotal time for Saskatchewan curling, with the province maintaining its reputation as a powerhouse in Canadian women's curling. The combination of experienced veterans stepping away and talented champions returning suggests an evolving competitive landscape that will undoubtedly produce compelling storylines in upcoming provincial and national competitions.
