Curling: Kerri Einarson adds Karlee Burgess to rink
Team Kerri Einarson Adds Karlee Burgess to Lineup as Replacement for Shannon Birchard
Team Kerri Einarson has made a significant roster change by adding three-time world junior champion Karlee Burgess to its lineup. Burgess will be stepping in as a replacement for Shannon Birchard, who is out for the rest of the season due to a knee injury.
Curling Canada has granted the team an injury exemption, allowing them to remain eligible for the upcoming Scotties Tournament of Hearts. Burgess, who recently parted ways with Team Chelsea Carey, will be transitioning from the third position to second on Einarson’s team.
Kerri Einarson expressed her excitement about Burgess joining the team, highlighting not only her skill as a shotmaker but also the energy and enthusiasm she brings to the game. The team’s lineup also includes vice Val Sweeting and fifth Krysten Karwacki, who has been filling in for Briane Harris at lead.
Shannon Birchard has been dealing with a knee injury that has kept her sidelined for most of the season. Despite attempting a return at a recent tour event in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Birchard experienced pain and was unable to complete the competition. She will now focus on rehabilitation with the goal of being ready for the next season.
The departure of Burgess from Team Carey has also had implications on their lineup, leaving them with only two returning members from last season’s foursome. As a result, they will no longer be eligible for early qualification berths for the Scotties and the Canadian Curling Trials.
With these changes, Edmonton’s Selena Sturmay is set to take the vacated Scotties berth, while Einarson will now claim the spot at the upcoming Trials in Halifax. This event will determine Canada’s representatives at the 2026 Milan Olympics.
Kerri Einarson, a four-time national champion, has already pre-qualified for the playdowns in Thunder Bay, Ontario, scheduled for February 14-23. The team is gearing up for the competition with Burgess now on board and the lineup adjustments in place.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on January 3, 2025.
