The Curl PEI Junior Development Program (JDP) is designed to support Prince Edward Island’s developing high-performance curlers as they pursue their goals at the provincial, national, and international levels.
The program is intended for dedicated curlers ages 13–21 who are committed to their development and are preparing to compete in Curl PEI’s U-15, U-18, U-20, and/or Mixed Doubles provincial events during the upcoming season. The JDP supports individual athletes who demonstrate a strong commitment to training and a desire to continually improve their performance.
Curlers must apply to the program and participate in Curl PEI’s Talent Identification (Talent ID) process. Athlete selection includes skills testing using Curling Canada’s Skills Curling App along with athlete questionaires to assess commitment, goals, and readiness for the program. Based on the results of the Talent ID process, up to 16 athletes will be invited to participate in the Junior Development Program each season. While applications are submitted individually, teams are encouraged to have all members apply to maximize access to development opportunities and resources.
Athletes accepted into the Junior Development Program will follow a curriculum developed by Curl PEI Performance Director, Peter Gallant. The program includes eight on-ice development sessions led by Peter and a team of instructors, focusing on technical skill development, delivery, sweeping, weight control, strategy, and mixed doubles. Two additional on-ice testing sessions are included to evaluate athlete progress throughout the season.
Participants also receive access to Curling Canada’s NextGen Virtual Education Program, which provides off-ice workshops on topics such as strength and conditioning, nutrition, mental performance, and other areas that support long-term athlete development.