Joanne Courtney will leave Team Rachel Homan at the end of the season to focus on her family and career.
“(Courtney) is one of the most dedicated, positive and hard-working people I have ever met,” Homan said in a statement. “I will forever be grateful for the memories we shared on and off the ice. It was an amazing ride, and although I’m sad she is leaving, I’m so happy for her to make new goals and watch her thrive in her next ambitions.”
It's been a journey of a lifetime. So much love for you @JoCourtney89 https://t.co/Dyqmt94ak1
— Rachel Homan (@RHoman89) February 22, 2022
Courtney, 32, has been with Team Homan since 2014-15, during which time the team won the 2017 Scotties and represented Canada at the 2018 Olympic Winter Games. The team also won eight Grand Slam of Curling titles with Courtney in the fold.
“It is bittersweet to be stepping away from the team at the end of the season and taking a break from curling,” Courtney said. “When I got the call eight years ago, I could not have imagined how much joining Team Homan would change my life. Playing at the highest level in the sport I love has been a dream come true. The pursuit of excellence requires relentless effort, and I am proud of my personal growth through my time on this team. I will continue to be inspired by the drive and dedication of my teammates as I step away from the game.”
Courtney worked as a broadcaster with the CBC during the Beijing Winter Olympics earlier this month. Team Homan – which also includes Emma Miskew and Sarah Wilkes – will determine Courtney’s replacement before next season.
“It has been a wild ride and I cannot thank Team Homan enough for letting me join,” Courtney said. “While the big wins will be burned in my brain forever, it will be the little moments of camaraderie that I will miss the most. I cannot wait to assume the ‘fangirl’ role for my wonderful teammates as I look to create more balance in my life and pursue new goals.”
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