Scotties Skips Eye Victory with Homan’s Absence

At the 2026 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, the absence of five-time champion Rachel Homan is a significant event. Homan’s rink, which has previously secured titles in 2024 and 2025, is not competing this year. This decision was made by Curling Canada to allow the team to focus on the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games. This means Homan’s team also misses out on a chance for a third consecutive world championship.

Key Players and Competing Teams

Among the competitors is Kerri Einarson, a four-time champion. Einarson has won the Scotties every year from 2020 to 2023 and was the finalist last year. Wearing the red-and-white Team Canada jersey, she expressed her excitement about the tournament. “It’s an absolute honour to be able to wear the red and white again,” Einarson said.

Another strong contender is Christina Black, the 2025 Scotties bronze medallist. Black’s team made it to the finals at the recent Olympic Trials, defeating Einarson’s team in the semifinal. She emphasized the importance of positive thinking for her team’s success. “We want to win,” Black stated, highlighting the absence of Homan’s team as a chance for others.

Other Notable Competitors

Krista Scharf, representing Northern Ontario, is a two-time silver medallist. She is competing in her 13th Scotties, expressing appreciation for the talented field this year. “Rachel’s team is unbelievable…but it’s a great field here as well,” Scharf mentioned.

• Selena Sturmay from Alberta is also making her mark. This is her rink’s third consecutive appearance, following a playoff run in 2024. Sturmay stated, “We’re here to win,” signaling a shift from merely gaining experience to aiming for victory.

Looking Ahead

This year’s Scotties Tournament of Hearts carries special significance as it is the last event before the Olympic quadrennial concludes. As the tournament progresses, teams will compete fiercely for a place in Canadian curling history. The round robin matches will conclude on Thursday, with the final set for Sunday, allowing teams to demonstrate their skills and determination.

As the competition unfolds, each team is motivated to seize the opportunity and secure the championship title, especially with the open field created by Homan’s absence. The excitement and passion for the tournament continue to drive the players toward their goal. “We’re going to go out there this week and give it our all,” Einarson concluded.