Kelly Knapp’s rink from the Highland Curling Club will be the latest Saskatchewan rink to end the province’s dry spell at the Brier that has lasted since 1980.
The Brier gets underway on Friday in London, Ontario. Team Saskatchewan will play their first game on Saturday against former Saskatchewan skip, Matt Dunstone and his Team Manitoba rink in Draw #2.
On Thursday, Knapp was a guest on the SportsCage with Michael Ball.
This won’t be Knapp’s first trip to London for the Brier. He was the alternate of the Steve Laycock rink in 2011. That team included Pat Simmons, Dallan Muyres and his current teammate Brennan Jones. Knapp is looking forward to being on the ice this time in London.
“I guess London has a thing for having me but it sure is sweeter this time to be a player that won the provincial championship and qualify my way here.”
With a province that has a passion for curling as Saskatchewan has, there is a lot of anticipation about potentially becoming the first rink since Rick Folk’s to win the Brier. Knapp says the nerves haven’t kicked in yet.
“I could maybe tell you a little bit more of that on Saturday but right now it’s pure excitement.”
For Knapp, the chance to represent Saskatchewan on the national stage is something he considers a big honour.
“I couldn’t be prouder, I think the only way I could be prouder is if we get that red jacket at the end of the week.”
Among the other teams that Saskatchewan will be competing with in Pool A include Alberta’s Kevin Koe and Wild Card #2 Reid Carruthers.
After Saturday’s opening matchup twice on Sunday, in Draw #4 against Newfoundland and Labrador. Saskatchewan will return to the ice on Draw #6 against Alberta.
