Trojans add Kleibrink to staff

CALGARY, ALTA., (Nov. 26, 2021) – The SAIT Trojans curling team will be led by someone who knows a little something about competing at a high level.

Alberta curling legend Shannon Kleibrink has signed on to coach the team following an impressive career on the ice, which included skipping her team to an Olympic bronze medal (2006) and multiple trips to the Scotties Tournament of Hearts as Alberta's representative.

"I'm too old to play myself, so I have moved on to the warmer side of the glass," Kleibrink said with a laugh when asked about her interest in coaching. "Really though, I always had my hand in coaching. I had a junior program that I ran in Okotoks for a few years, and would help out younger teams whenever they asked. I sort of have been doing it all along, but now it's just more full-time. I love it, and it's just great to still be involved."

Kleibrink retired from the game after the 2017-18 season, but has not strayed too far from the rink.

She spent time in China acting as a coach, and now doles out advice for the Jeremy Harty rink. She currently serves as the Director of Community Curling Centre Development with Curling Alberta.

"We are very excited to bring someone of Shannon's stature on board as the new coach of our SAIT Trojans curling team," said Wade Kolmel, Director of Athletics and Recreation at SAIT. "Her background on the ice speaks for itself, but she is also someone who is passionate about growing the sport at multiple levels, including the collegiate level. We look forward to working with her and supporting her as she gets started here at SAIT."

The SAIT Trojans brought back their curling team in the 2019-20 season after disbanding the program following the 2006-07 season. The return was a triumphant one, as the men's team won their first ACAC title since 1991.

Kleibrink will look to not only capitalize on the momentum gained in 2020, but also add more females to the squad in order compete in mixed and women's team events as well.

"There are lots of great curlers who are currently attending SAIT, so it's an opportunity to put together some very competitive teams," she said. "I hear that other schools in the ACAC are considering joining as well, so I am excited to be a part of this growth."

As for expectations in her first year at the helm?

"Just to get out there and do the best we can," Kleibrink said. "And try to represent SAIT well."

Any SAIT students interested in playing are invited to an open practice on Nov. 30 from 4:30-6pm at NorthHill Curling Club, or can email Coach Kleibrink at smkleibrink@gmail.com.