Top Curlers Withdraw from Inaugural Rock League

Dunstone, Lott, Harnden, and Tardi Cite Burnout and Family Priorities

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:19am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fractured, multi-perspective view of a curling match, with sharp planes of color and overlapping shapes representing the intense physical and mental strain of the sport.The withdrawal of top curling stars from the inaugural Rock League season exposes the intense physical and mental demands of elite competition, sparking a quiet rebellion against an overcrowded calendar.Anchorage Today

In a surprising move, top Canadian curlers Matt Dunstone, Colton Lott, E.J. Harnden, and Tyler Tardi have announced their withdrawal from the inaugural Rock League season. The athletes cited the need for rest after a grueling season and, in Harnden's case, prioritizing family time.

Why it matters

The withdrawals shine a light on the intense demands placed on elite curlers, who are expected to perform at the highest level in a packed calendar of national championships, world events, and now the new Rock League. This decision suggests a growing tension between the sport's expansion and the well-being of its top stars.

The details

Dunstone, the reigning Brier champion, along with his teammates Lott and Tardi, stated they needed time to recover after a long season. Harnden, an Olympic gold medalist, cited the need to spend more time with his family as the reason for his withdrawal. The Rock League organizers have quickly replaced the departing players with high-profile names like Mike McEwen and Benoit Schwarz-van Berkel.

  • The Rock League was scheduled to begin just days after the World Men's Curling Championship.
  • Dunstone, Lott, Harnden, and Tardi announced their withdrawal in the week leading up to the Rock League's inaugural season.

The players

Matt Dunstone

A Canadian curler and the reigning Brier champion.

Colton Lott

A member of Dunstone's curling team.

E.J. Harnden

An Olympic gold medalist curler who prioritized family time over the Rock League.

Tyler Tardi

An Olympic standout who withdrew from the Rock League alongside Dunstone and his teammates.

Mike McEwen

A talented curler who has replaced Dunstone's team in the Rock League.

Benoit Schwarz-van Berkel

Another high-profile player who has joined the Rock League roster after the withdrawals.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.