Dunstone, Harnden, Lott and Tardi Withdraw from Inaugural Rock League Season

TORONTO — Montana’s Brier champion Matt Dunstone, along with teammates Colton Lott and E.J. Harnden, have withdrawn from the inaugural season of the Rock League curling competition, as announced on Friday. Olympic gold medalist Tyler Tardi, who served as an alternate with Team Brad Jacobs at the Milan Cortina Games last month, has also opted to sit out the league’s first season.

Reasons for Withdrawal

According to a statement released by The Curling Group, Dunstone, Lott, and Tardi have chosen to take time off following a demanding season. Harnden’s withdrawal is due to a desire to spend more time with his family.

Brier Champions to Represent Canada at World Championship

Despite withdrawing from the Rock League, Dunstone, Lott, and Harnden recently secured the national championship at the Brier earlier this month in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. The team will now represent Canada at the World Men’s Curling Championship, scheduled to take place from March 27 to April 4 in Ogden, Utah.

Rock League Adjusts Roster

The Rock League, set to commence a weeklong competition starting April 6 in Toronto, has announced replacements for the withdrawn players. Canada’s Mike McEwen, Switzerland’s Benoit Schwarz-van Berkel, Italy’s Amos Mosaner, and American Colin Hufman will fill the vacated spots. Sweden’s Linda Stenlund and Italy’s Mattia Giovanella have been named as spares for the competition.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 20, 2026.