Sudbury’s local sports scene bursts into action as 2026 begins, with curling provincials in North Bay stealing the spotlight and Nordic skiers chasing Olympic dreams. Athletes from the area shine in multiple events, drawing fans amid a packed calendar of competitions and community highlights.
Curling Provincials Heat Up North Bay
The Northern Ontario Curling Association men’s and women’s provincial championships draw big crowds at the North Bay Granite Club this week. With spots at the national Brier and Scotties Tournament of Hearts on the line, 23 teams battle in a triple-knockout format.
Top men’s teams like John Epping’s rink from the Northern Credit Union Community Centre, featuring Jacob Horgan, Tanner Horgan, and Ian McMillan, stay undefeated after three wins. They face Trevor Bonot’s squad from Fort William Curling Club in a key qualifier. Bonot’s team, coached by curling legend Al Hackner, earned their spot with a 6-4 victory over Sudbury’s Sandy MacEwan group.
On the women’s side, Krista Scharf’s team leads at 3-0, including Kendra Lilly, Ashley Sippala, and Sarah Potts. Sudbury’s Krysta Burns rink, with Sara Guy, Laura Masters, and Laura Forget, holds a 2-0 record alongside Thunder Bay’s Robyn Despins. Upsets remain possible as the finals approach on Sunday, with only a few teams out so far.
Local curlers add pride to the event, building on past successes like Team Horgan’s mixed doubles wins in recent years. Fans pack the venue, cheering for Northern Ontario pride in this high-stakes showdown.
Nordic Skiers Chase Olympic Glory
Sudbury athletes make waves at the Canadian Olympic Nordic Ski Trials last month, testing skills for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Games. Kendyn Mashinter and Max Mahaffy stand out, competing fiercely in cross-country events.
The trials highlight rising stars from the North, with Sudbury’s contingent showing strong endurance and technique. Mashinter clocks impressive times in sprint races, while Mahaffy excels in distance challenges, both eyeing spots on Team Canada.
This event ties into broader winter sports trends, as Ontario prepares for major international meets. Local training at spots like the Laurentian Nordic Ski Club boosts these efforts, inspiring young skiers in the community.
Past champions from the region, including those who triumphed at national mixed doubles, set a high bar. These trials not only select Olympians but also fuel excitement for winter activities across Sudbury.
Basketball and Arena Drama Unfold
The Sudbury Five defend their Basketball Super League title with a strong start, beating the Jackals in their 2026 home opener despite rough weather. Over 2,000 fans brave the elements to watch the revamped team dominate on the court.
Key players deliver big plays, showcasing speed and strategy that keep the crowd roaring. This victory builds momentum for the season, with the Five aiming to repeat as champions.
However, not all arena news is positive. A fan fight at Sudbury Arena during a recent game goes unreported to police, prompting reviews by SW Sports and Entertainment. They work with security to prevent future incidents, ensuring safe environments for families and fans.
These developments mix triumph and challenges, reflecting the passion in local basketball circles.
Gymnastics Shifts and Community Events
Sudbury Salto Gymnastics wraps up operations, dividing resources among other Northern Ontario clubs to keep the sport alive. This change opens doors for athletes to join nearby programs, maintaining gymnastics growth in the region.
The move comes amid a busy local calendar, including the Edward Jones Bonspiel at Idylwylde Golf and Country Club. Teams compete in draws, blending fun and competition for all skill levels.
Other happenings include high school sports days, affected by weather but resuming with energy. Community events like quilting at Parkside Older Adult Centre add variety, though sports take center stage.
Here’s a quick look at recent shifts in local gymnastics:
- Resources shared with clubs in Thunder Bay and Sault Ste. Marie.
- Youth programs focus on skill-building workshops.
- Coaches transition to support broader Northern Ontario talent.
Upcoming Sports Calendar for Sudbury
Looking ahead, Sudbury gears up for more action in 2026, tying into global events like the FIFA World Cup and Winter Olympics. Local ties include potential athletes heading to Milano Cortina.
A table of key upcoming events shows the excitement:
| Event | Date | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Under-20 Curling Championships | March 28 – April 5 | Sudbury | National youth competition with local hosts |
| Sudbury Five Home Games | Ongoing through spring | Sudbury Arena | Title defense matches against league rivals |
| Laurentian Nordic Races | February weekends | Laurentian Ski Club | Community ski events for all ages |
| Idylwylde Bonspiel Finals | This weekend | Idylwylde Country Club | Cash prizes and team showdowns |
These events promise thrills, from curling nationals to ski races, keeping Sudbury’s sports vibe strong.
Broader Impact on Local Athletes
Sudbury’s sports scene fosters talent that competes nationally and beyond. Athletes like those in curling and skiing draw from community support, training hard year-round.
Recent years see successes, such as provincial wins by teams from Thunder Bay and Saskatchewan inspirations. This momentum encourages youth involvement, with clubs offering programs in multiple disciplines.
Challenges like weather disruptions and facility changes test resilience, but the community rallies. Fans and families play key roles, turning events into celebrations of local pride.
Share your thoughts on these Sudbury sports updates in the comments below, and spread the word to fellow fans for more coverage on local athletes in 2026.
