What a weekend for the sport of curling..... what a weekend for Newfoundland and Labrador. The Gushue Rink is the World Men�s Junior Curling Champions. Brad Gushue, Brent Hamilton, Mike Adam, Mark Nichols, Jamie Korab and coach Jeff Thomas are number one.

Could a province and its people or a nation for that matter be prouder. For remember not only did the achievements of these outstanding athletes give this province one of the proudest moments in its history they have brought home a world championship to Canada.

I have had the pleasure of meeting these young men and even attempted to with curl with them. Let me tell you what I have come to understand. Their skill in the sport of curling at their level of competition is unparalleled. Imagine the degree of determination, the incredibly long hours of practice to reach a goal that has brought them to this level of athletic excellence. All the while they have remained successful in striking the fine balance between athleticism and their responsibilities to high school and university studies. These are commitments whose scope is difficult for many of us to comprehend. But there is another part to this remarkable story that extends beyond the bounds of a curling rink.

Through the arduous journey of competition to get to the world championship, Brad, Brent, Mike, Mark and Jamie have presented themselves in a manner of professionalism and maturity that can only be measured beyond their years. As the minister responsible for sport in Newfoundland and Labrador I could not ask for more suitable ambassadors for our province to the world.

The members of this championship rink are also members of families. So to their families I extend heartfelt congratulations. I thank them and applaud them for their dedication and the many sacrifices they have made in support of their sons� talents and goals. We share in your pride.

To the coach of the winning team Jeff Thomas, you have the thanks of a proud province for your superb coaching and the guidance you have given to this team.

The Brad Gushue Championship Team will arrive home tonight at midnight. I would encourage everyone to make an effort to greet our World Junior Mens Curling Champions. I will be there to welcome them home and look forward to a celebration of their outstanding accomplishments.

As a province we are overjoyed by this unequaled feat of athletic achievement. As a people we are very proud of our sons whose performance on the world stage was done with grace and dignity, and with such superior sportsmanlike conduct.

On behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and its people, I extend our sincere congratulations to the Brad Gushue Rink and remind them that we are truly so proud of them.

2001 03 26                                            2:00 p.m.