Veteran skip Brad Jacobs is a free agent after announcing Wednesday that he is parting ways with Reid Carruthers and his Manitoba-based curling team.
Jacobs joined the team based near Winnipeg, which also includes second Derek Samagalski and lead Connor Njegovan, midway through the 2022-23 season replacement for former third Jason Gunnlaugson.
He became a permanent member of the team this season and took over as skip when he swapped roles with Carruthers in December.
“It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to part ways with Reid, Derek, Connor and [coach Rob Meakin],” Jacobs said in a statement on social media. “It is never easy nor enjoyable to make these tough decisions.
“They welcomed me with open arms, treated me like family, were incredible teammates and friends.”
📣 Team Announcement 📣 <a href=”https://t.co/Xj8w3VqGdn”>pic.twitter.com/Xj8w3VqGdn</a>
—@teamcarruthers
Team Carruthers appeared in February’s Canadian men’s championship in February after winning Manitoba’s provincial playdown. The squad most recently finished 2-3 and out of the playoffs at last week’s season-ending Grand Slam of Curling Players’ Championship.
“Brad was a huge part in our team’s success. including representing Manitoba at the 2024 Brier, and we wish him all the best in the future,” Team Carruthers said in a statement.
Jacobs won the 2013 Brier and 2014 Olympic men’s curling gold medal with a team based out of his hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., before stepping away from the sport in March 2020.
The move comes a day after another Brier champion, Edmonton’s Brendan Bottcher, parted ways with his team after a two-year run.
