Brad Gushue brings stories beyond the scoreboard to Sarnia book event

Ahead of his October 31 visit, Brad Gushue reflects on leadership, the moments he wishes he had savoured and keeping young curlers in the game.

Brad Gushue spent much of his curling career preparing for the next competition. Writing his memoir gave him a chance to look back at what he had sometimes rushed past.

The Olympic gold medallist will visit Sarnia on Saturday, October 31, for a 2 p.m. book talk and signing hosted by The Book Keeper at the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club.

His memoir, Gushue: The Making of a Champion, written with journalist Stephen Brunt, explores the relationships, sacrifices and setbacks behind a career that included Olympic gold in 2006 and six Brier titles.

In a written interview with The Journal, Gushue said the approaching end of his playing career made it feel like the right time to share both familiar milestones and stories from behind the scenes.

“In many ways, writing the book was therapeutic for me,” he said. “My final season was emotionally difficult, knowing that my career was coming to an end, but reflecting on both the great moments and the tougher experiences helped me appreciate everything I’ve been fortunate enough to achieve.”

Looking back also brought some regret about how quickly he moved on from success.

“You win a big event, enjoy it briefly, and then immediately start preparing for the next one,” he said. “Looking back, I wish I’d taken more time to enjoy those successes and appreciate what we were accomplishing.”

His understanding of leadership changed, too. Early on, Gushue said, he viewed team relationships as “somewhat transactional,” expecting hard work and strong performances to produce results.

Over time, he learned to pay more attention to what motivated teammates and what they were carrying outside the rink.

“Developing empathy, communicating effectively, and understanding how to support one another became a much bigger part of my approach to leadership.”

Gushue credited local curling clubs across Canada with providing competitions, support and places to practise throughout his career. He said the challenge for clubs is turning the interest generated by televised events, particularly the Olympics, into lasting participation.

For young curlers, his advice is to play because they love it. For their families, it is to offer support without pushing.

“Let them find their own path,” he said. “If they love the game, help them get to practices and bonspiels, encourage them, and be there with a hug after a tough loss or a big win.”

Gushue said he has spent little time in Sarnia and looks forward to sharing stories, answering questions and thanking fans who have supported his teams.

“One of the things I’m most excited about is the opportunity to personally thank the fans who have supported me and my teams for the past 25 or 30 years.”

The October 31 event takes place at the Sarnia Golf and Curling Club. For tickets and further details, contact The Book Keeper.