“Thank You, Newfoundland & Labrador”
Geoff Walker, a consistent front end presence with Team Brad Gushue since the fall of 2011, is bidding farewell to the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
In a social media post today, the 40-year-old Albertan made it clear that he won’t be part of an NL-based team in the future.
“As they say, all good things eventually come to an end,” Walker posted.
Geoff Walker last week • Anil Mungal-The Curling News“For the past 15 years, I’ve done my very best to represent this province to the best of my ability, and it has truly been an honour.
“Winning a Brier for Newfoundland & Labrador in St. John’s is a memory I will never forget. Having the opportunity to play one final time last week as part of YOUR TEAM made it even more special.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Brad, Mark (Nichols), Brendan (Bottcher) and all of my former teammates, coaches, and support staff, as well as the fans and sponsors who have supported us throughout the years. Your encouragement has meant the world.”
“Brad, don’t leave me hanging!” (2013) • Michael Burns-Curling CanadaWalker first teamed with Gushue for the 2012 season and the result was 15 straight Brier appearances, culminating in the squad’s farewell Brier appearance on home ice in St. John’s last week.
The addition of third Brett Gallant from PEI saw the squad finish fourth in 2012-13. When Mark Nichols returned to NL from Winnipeg the next season and rejoined Team Gushue, a run of Brier titles was soon to follow – in 2017, 2018, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
The squad also finished third at the 2017 Olympic Trials and won the 2022 Trials, also scoring Olympic bronze in Beijing.
On the job in 2022 • Michael Burns-Curling CanadaBrad Gushue retired from high-performance curling after his final game at the Mary Brown's Centre last week.
“A special thank you as well to Harold and his staff at the RE/MAX Centre in St. John’s for everything you’ve done over the years, and to the membership for the warm welcome and continued support,” continued Walker.
“Brad, best of luck in your retirement and whatever comes next for you. I know firsthand that you will excel in that as well.
“Thank you, NL. It’s been an honour representing you!”