Brett Gallant will be departing from Brad Gushue’s team at the end of the curling season, as announced by the team on Saturday.
In a tweet, Team Gushue shared that Gallant had chosen to join a different team. Gallant expressed his gratitude in a statement, saying, “I would like to thank Brad, Mark, and Geoff for the incredible opportunity to be part of this team. Together, we’ve achieved things I only dreamed of.”
In an interview with CBC News, Gallant spoke about how Newfoundland and Labrador has become his home over the past decade. Although I’m moving away, it’s still a special place for me, and I’ll be back. I’ve made great friends here, so it’s a bit sad to leave.”
Gallant mentioned his readiness for a change and the desire to be closer to his family and fiancée, Jocelyn Peterman, who is also his mixed doubles curling partner. He noted, “Jocelyn and I have been managing a long-distance relationship while juggling different provinces. We’re getting married this summer, and we’re excited to start this next chapter together.”
Gallant felt it was the right time to move on, considering it’s the end of a four-year Olympic cycle. He refrained from speculating about his future team for next season.
Gushue acknowledged Gallant’s significant contribution over the past decade, noting, “Brett has put in 10 great years and has been an integral part of our success. It’s been rewarding to see his growth into one of the top seconds in the game.”
Despite Gallant’s decision not being a surprise, Gushue said, “After our Olympic trials win in December, we knew Brett wanted to wait until after the Olympics to decide. Last week, he confirmed his intention to move on. We respect his choice and wish him all the best.”
Gallant will continue with Gushue’s team for the upcoming world championship in Las Vegas next month, along with two other tournaments in April and May. Both Gallant and Gushue are focused on making the most of their final events together.
Gallant’s departure leaves Gushue searching for a new team member as the Olympic cycle ends, amid changes in Canadian men’s curling. Teams led by Kevin Koe and Brendan Bottcher from Alberta have announced separations.
Additionally, E.J. Harnden will step in as the alternate for the world championships. Although Harnden is a potential candidate for next season, Gushue noted that residency rules pose challenges, as only one player per team can live outside the province. With Geoff Walker residing in Alberta, adjustments would be necessary.
Gushue indicated that finding a suitable replacement in Newfoundland is challenging, so the search will continue to determine if a viable solution is possible.
