John Cullen discusses the challenges faced by former NFL player Jared Allen as he transitions into the sport of curling and how he's helping to popularize it in the U.S.
The article features a commentary by Calgary writer and comedian John Cullen on the experiences of former NFL star Jared Allen as he attempts to master the sport of curling, a game that many in Canada might see as simple due to its cultural significance. Cullen highlights the misconception that curling is an easy sport to pick up, especially for someone coming from the physically demanding world of professional football, illustrating the steep learning curve that Allen faces.
Cullen describes a scene at a curling bar in Nashville, Tennessee, where Allen and his friends are engaging with the sport in a vibrant urban setting that is far removed from traditional curling culture in Canada. This juxtaposition serves to show how curling is evolving, moving beyond its roots as a pastime for small-town Canadians to become a more widely recognized and embraced sport in the United States, thanks in part to athletes like Allen.
The article emphasizes the cultural shift in how curling is perceived and enjoyed, not just as a winter sport but as a social activity that spans borders. It suggests that with efforts from influencers such as Allen, curling may find a new and enthusiastic audience, challenging the idea that it's exclusively a Canadian specialty.
