Two curlers are poised to make history at Canada’s national men’s curling championship, the Brier, as they step onto the ice with aspirations and ambitions that transcend the game itself. Cody Tanaka and Jayden King are believed to be the first Asian and Black skips, respectively, to lead teams at the prestigious event, marking a significant moment in the sport’s evolution.
Breaking New Ground
Cody Tanaka, hailing from Tsawwassen, British Columbia, expressed his surprise and honour upon learning that he would be the first Asian skip to compete at the Brier. His journey to this pivotal moment began with his team’s triumph at the provincial championships, which secured their place in the national competition. “It’s an honour,” Tanaka remarked after a practice session at the Mary Brown’s Centre in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
On the other side of the ice, Jayden King from Tillsonburg, Ontario, is recognised as the first Black skip at the Brier. With roots tracing back to Trinidad and Tobago, King first discovered the sport at the age of 11 after watching it on television. He remains focused on the competition rather than the historic implications of his role. “It feels great,” he said, his excitement evident after practice. “Obviously, being at the Brier is a great accomplishment, and I’m just happy to be here with my team and now get started.”
A Unique Team Dynamic
King leads a youthful team that he describes as a “unique mix,” which includes third Dylan Niepage, who is deaf and wears cochlear implants. All members of the Tillsonburg Curling Club team are under the age of 25 and have recently transitioned from junior and university levels. Starting the season ranked 40th in the world, they have made a remarkable leap to 18th following their victory at the Ontario men’s championship in January.
This year’s Brier is shaping up to be a memorable event, not just for Tanaka and King but for the curling community as a whole. St. John’s own Brad Gushue, a celebrated skip, has announced this will be his final appearance at the national championship, adding an emotional layer to the competition on home ice.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Miki family is another chapter in the rich history of curling at the Brier. Josh Miki, the coach of the British Columbia team, carries forward a legacy that includes both his father and grandfather. His father, Bryan Miki, clinched the Brier title in 2000 with Team British Columbia, while Josh’s grandfather, Fuji Miki, became the first player of Japanese descent to participate in the Brier back in 1979. “And now me, I get to coach behind the bench for my first Brier,” said Josh, reflecting on his family’s enduring connection to the sport. “I grew up watching my dad compete all the time, so I spent a lot of time at curling rinks. I’ve just loved the game since I’ve been a kid.”
Curling Canada is actively working to broaden participation in the sport, with initiatives spearheaded by Richard Norman, the organisation’s director of community futures and innovations. Through tailored strategies and resources, Curling Canada aims to create a more inclusive environment for all aspiring curlers, supporting clubs in welcoming diverse communities.
Aspiring for Victory
Tanaka remains optimistic about his team’s chances in the tournament. He acknowledges the formidable opponents they will face, particularly Team Saskatchewan, skipped by Mike McEwen, and Team Manitoba, led by Matt Dunstone. “I hope we get a couple wins here and there, but it’ll be cool to soak in the atmosphere and see all the fans,” he shared, highlighting his eagerness to engage with the curling community.
King, meanwhile, is keen to leverage what he calls his “quiet leadership” to steer his team towards success. “We want to be around at the end of the week for sure,” he noted, reflecting on their productive tour season. With aspirations to make a deep playoff run, he added, “We put a lot of points on the board.”
The champion of this year’s Brier will earn the honour of representing Canada at the 2026 LGT World Men’s Curling Championship in Utah, further elevating the stakes for all competitors.
Why it Matters
The participation of Tanaka and King at the Brier not only highlights the growing diversity within curling but also signifies a broader cultural shift in Canadian sports. Their achievements inspire a new generation of curlers from various backgrounds, showcasing that the sport is not just about tradition but also about inclusivity and progress. As they make their mark on the ice, they remind us that every game is an opportunity to redefine history and foster a community that welcomes all.
