Canadian Fans from Far and Wide

GRANADA – There are four players on the Canadian women’s curling team.

But they are not alone.

Dressed in red and white and covered in flags, about fifteen of their family members have made the ten hour flight from Canada to Spain to cheer them on.

“We have to support our kids,” said Jessica Armstrong’s father, Mike Armstrong. “I don’t know who is more excited; the parents or the athletes.”

He says that Jessica, who has won a National Championship playing for Carleton University, loves the sport for more than just the competitions.

“In curling, even after the games they will sit down with their opponents and socialize,” he said. “There is such etiquette.”

And this is the first time Jessica has been able to show that etiquette on an international stage.

“It’s a once in a lifestyle experience,” he said. “To represent your country is one of the top honors in life.”

Jessica’s teammate Breanne Meakin, of the University of Manitoba, knows what it’s like to wear ‘Canada’ across her chest.

Breanne Meakin, curler and flag bearer“This is her second Universiade,” said Breanne’s mother, Nadine Meakin. “She’s been able to travel all over the world with curling.”

And although she has recently stopped playing for her university in order to focus on her academics, she was more than happy to receive the invite to compete at the 2015 Winter Universiade in Granada.

“When she decided to [come here] her and her dad were out throwing rocks every other day,” said her mother. “Her dad has inspired her a lot.”

That’s because Breanne’s dad, Rob Meakin, was a World Champion curler, himself.

“She always trusted what he was teaching her and telling her what to do,” she said. “She [has always been] very devoted.”

But it’s not just her dad’s influence that helped grow her love for the game.

“She enjoys meeting people from all over the world,” said Nadine. “Curling has really always been her social life.”

But her social life waits until after each match because “she loves to win,” said her mother.

You can catch Jessica and Breanne with their teammates, Lauren Horton and Lynn Kreviazuk, play in round robin games until 10 February.

For the full curling schedule and results, check out

Kelcey Wright, U-Media Reporter