In a groundbreaking moment for Canadian curling, two athletes are poised to make history as they compete in the 2026 Brier. Cody Tanaka and Jayden King, representing British Columbia and Ontario respectively, are believed to be the first Black and Asian skips to lead their teams at this prestigious national championship. As they step onto the ice, their participation not only marks a significant achievement for them personally but also reflects broader changes within the sport.
Breaking Barriers in Curling
Cody Tanaka, hailing from Tsawwassen, British Columbia, expressed his pride upon learning he would be the first Asian skip to compete at the Brier. “It’s an honour,” he remarked after a practice session at the Mary Brown’s Centre in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. His journey to this point began with a victory at the provincial championships, a triumph that has now propelled him into the national spotlight.
Meanwhile, Jayden King, representing Team Ontario, is credited with being the first Black skip in Brier history. The 23-year-old from Tillsonburg, whose father emigrated from Trinidad and Tobago, found his passion for curling at the tender age of 11 after watching it on television. “It feels great,” he said, radiating enthusiasm as he prepared for the competition. “Being at the Brier is a great accomplishment, and I’m just happy to be here with my team.”
A Unique Team Dynamic
King’s team is a vibrant mix of talent, including third Dylan Niepage, who is deaf and uses cochlear implants. All members are under 25, having recently transitioned from junior and university ranks. Starting the season ranked 40th in the world, they have impressively climbed to the 18th position after clinching the Ontario men’s championship in January.
As the Brier unfolds, it serves as a platform for new legacies. Celebrated skip Brad Gushue, representing St. John’s, has announced that this will be his final national championship, adding an emotional layer to the event as he competes on home ice.
Generational Connections and Coaching Legacy
Coaching Tanaka’s team is Josh Miki, who brings a rich family legacy to the Brier. A third-generation competitor, Miki’s father, Bryan Miki, won the Brier in 2000, and his grandfather, Fuji Miki, was the first player of Japanese descent to participate in the event in 1979. “And now me, I get to coach behind the bench for my first Brier,” Josh reflected. His connection to the sport runs deep, shaped by years spent at curling rinks watching his father compete.
Fostering Inclusivity in Curling
Curling Canada has recognised the need for greater diversity within the sport and has taken steps to encourage participation from various communities. Richard Norman, the organisation’s director of community futures and innovations, has initiated several programmes aimed at promoting inclusivity. By tailoring outreach strategies to different regions, Curling Canada is working to ensure that curling is accessible to all.
Tanaka’s draw to the sport stems from its competitiveness, which he discovered through his high school’s curling league. He pointed to formidable opponents such as Team Saskatchewan, skipped by Mike McEwen, and Team Manitoba, led by Matt Dunstone, as key challenges. “I hope we get a couple of wins here and there, but it’ll be cool to soak in the atmosphere and see all the fans,” he said, embodying the spirit of camaraderie that curling promotes.
King, drawing on his “quiet leadership,” aims to guide his team through the competition and hopes to reach the playoffs. “We want to be around at the end of the week for sure,” he asserted, expressing confidence in their preparation and performance over the season. The ultimate goal for this year’s Brier champion is to represent Canada at the 2026 LGT World Men’s Curling Championship next month in Utah.
Why it Matters
The participation of Tanaka and King at the Brier signifies a pivotal shift in the landscape of Canadian curling, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in sports. Their achievements inspire future generations, demonstrating that barriers can be broken, and new narratives can emerge in a traditionally homogenous environment. As they compete, they not only honour their individual journeys but also pave the way for a more inclusive future in curling, encouraging a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences within the sport.
