Scotties Rookies from B.C. Poised to Compete in Mississauga
Team Taylor Reese-Hansen, representing British Columbia, is poised to make an impressive debut at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Mississauga. The young team hails from the Victoria Curling Club and aims to challenge more experienced competitors.
Exciting Debut for Team Reese-Hansen
The squad will open their campaign against Manitoba’s Team Kaitlyn Lawes on Friday night at 7 p.m. ET. This match marks a significant moment for skip Taylor Reese-Hansen, who expressed her excitement about competing at the tournament.
Reese-Hansen’s Journey to Scotties
Reese-Hansen, 28, began curling in Grade 7 and has dreamed of participating in the Scotties since her high school days. “I wrote in my yearbook that I wanted to go to Scotties,” she shared, reflecting on her long-standing aspiration.
Consistency and Success
Notably, Team Reese-Hansen has shown remarkable consistency this season. They reached the finals in six out of ten events, securing three victories. Noteworthy achievements include winning the Canadian Open Tier 2 Grand Slam against Team Lawes and the B.C. women’s championship against Team Corryn Brown. They even claimed a win against world No. 2 Silvana Tirinzoni.
Performance Statistics
- Ranked third in Canada.
- Ranked second at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts.
- Aiming to finish in the top three of Pool A.
- Last year’s focus: Winning the U25 NextGen Classic.
Team Dynamics and Preparation
Reese-Hansen’s team includes third Megan McGillivray, second Kim Bonneau, and lead Julianna Mackenzie. Under the guidance of coach Todd Troyer, they are in their second season together. Their motto this year emphasizes “process over outcome,” highlighting their approach to gameplay.
Preparation Strategies
- Consistency in practice routine.
- Regular discussions about team goals.
- Pre-event practice sessions beyond rink time.
- Stress management through focused mindset.
Representing British Columbia
A victory at the Scotties would be a significant achievement, as no B.C. team has won since Kelly Scott in 2007. Despite the pressures, Reese-Hansen remains grounded, prioritizing enjoyment alongside competition. “We don’t want to leave here with any regrets,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of the experience.
Conclusion
As Team Taylor Reese-Hansen prepares for their opening match, they carry the hopes of their home province into the arena. With their strong performances this season and a clear game plan, they are ready to make their mark in Mississauga.
