Matt Dunstone, who led his team to victory at the Brier, along with teammates Colton Lott and E.J. Harnden, have officially withdrawn from the inaugural season of Rock League, a decision announced on Friday. They are taking time off following an intense curling season which included a national championship title. Meanwhile, Tyler Tardi, who recently contributed to Team Brad Jacobs' Olympic gold success, has also opted to step back from the competition.

The curlers' withdrawal comes after their successful performance at the national championships held in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, where they secured a spot to represent Canada at the upcoming world men’s curling championship in Ogden, Utah, scheduled from March 27 to April 4. The players stated that the demands of the season have prompted them to prioritize their health and family over the pressures of competing in the Rock League, which is set to take place from April 6 in Toronto.

In their absence, curling will see replacements including Canadian Mike McEwen, along with international players from Switzerland, Italy, and the United States stepping in to fill the gaps left by these notable athletes. This change highlights the ongoing dynamics in curling, where elite athletes balance competition with personal commitments and the physical toll of an extensive sport season.