Matt Dunstone adds Mark Nichols to curling team

One of Canada’s most decorated curlers is joining Matt Dunstone’s rink.

The reigning Canadian men’s curling champions have added one of Canada’s most decorated curlers to their rink.

Matt Dunstone announced Monday that Mark Nichols will be joining the team as their new second, replacing E.J. Harnden, who is retiring.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Mark to the team,” Dunstone said in a statement. “He’s one of the most accomplished and respected players in the game, and his experience, shot making, and competitive mindset are a perfect fit for what we’re building.”

Nichols was the long-time third for Brad Gushue’s Newfoundland and Labrador rink, curling with Gushue from 1999 to 2011 and again from 2014 to 2026, along with two seasons with Jeff Stoughton. With Gushue, Nichols won gold at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin and bronze at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. He has been to 22 Briers since 2003, winning first place six times with Gushue.

“I’m energized by the opportunity to bring my experience to an already elite lineup, and I look forward to building on the foundation they’ve established as we pursue our goals on the world stage,” Nichols said in a statement.

Dunstone recently won the Brier for the first time in March and finished with a silver medal in the World Men’s Curling Championship.