When curling great Jennifer Jones retired from the four-person game last year, she vowed that she would do everything she could to remain connected to the sport, all while trying to inspire the next generation of curlers in the country.
Now, the Olympic, two-time world and six-time Canadian champion has made her move to do just that.
Jones is joining forces with the most dominant women’s curling team in the world and will coach Rachel Homan’s rink at the Scotties Tournament of Hearts set to begin on Friday in Thunder Bay, Ont. Jones had appeared behind the Homan team bench during a few games at recent Grand Slam of Curling events.
Jones said she wants to be part of Team Homan as they pursue another Scotties and world title.
“I am so honoured to be the coach of Team Homan at this year’s Scotties. I have done a little bit of consulting with the team during the season and I’m very impressed with their work ethic and their desire to be the very best,” Jones told CBC Sports. “I have so much respect for all of the girls and they’ve made me feel so very welcome and valued.”
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Jones has not committed to coaching the team on a full-time basis and said she will make a decision after the Scotties.
In a post on Monday afternoon, Team Homan wrote that they’re excited to have the curling legend join them.
“Jen has been consulting with us at recent events, and we’re grateful she could fit this into her busy calendar. Due to prior commitments, she will join us later in the event until the end of our schedule. Rachelle Brown will be with the team for the entire tournament,” the post read. “Jen’s leadership and experience are invaluable; we’re lucky to have her on the bench with us. Plus, we hear her daughter Bella is thrilled to have a Scotties team to cheer for.”
What a difference a year makes.
The most recent Scotties championship featured Jones vs. Homan in the title game, with Homan prevailing 5-4 to capture her fourth Scotties championship. Homan is trying to track down Jennifer Jones and Colleen Jones, who both have won a record six Scotties titles.
Jones brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Team Homan. She holds the record for Scotties wins with 177 victories over 18 appearances.
Homan has been nearly unbeatable over the past two seasons. Last year she posted a 67-7 record en route to winning the Scotties and then a world championship title in Sydney, N.S.
