Curler Karlee Burgess joining Team Einarson to fill in for injured Shannon Birchard

Team Kerri Einarson has made a significant addition to their lineup by bringing on three-time world junior champion Karlee Burgess. Burgess will be stepping in for second Shannon Birchard, who is out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury.

The Manitoba-based team was granted an injury exemption by Curling Canada, allowing them to bring in Burgess as a replacement player while still maintaining their eligibility for the upcoming Scotties Tournament of Hearts. This exemption is crucial for the four-time national champions as they continue to compete at the highest level.

In addition to Burgess, Team Einarson consists of vice Val Sweeting and fifth Krysten Karwacki, who has been filling in for Briane Harris at lead position. Harris was provisionally suspended last February for up to four years after testing positive for a banned substance. Her appeal of the doping violation is still pending a decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Burgess previously played third for Team Chelsea Carey earlier this season, but her departure from that team was announced recently. The addition of Burgess to Team Einarson brings a wealth of experience and talent to an already formidable lineup.

The news of Burgess joining the team was confirmed on Twitter, with excitement building for the upcoming competitions. The Guelph event, part of the Grand Slam of Curling series, is just 11 days away, promising an intense and competitive season ahead for Team Einarson.

With this new lineup and the talent that Burgess brings to the team, Team Einarson is poised for success as they continue to compete at the highest levels of the sport. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey in the world of curling.