Nunavut returns to Scotties after one-year absence

They weren't there last year, but they will be this year.

Nunavut is returning to the Scotties Tournament of Hearts after a one-year hiatus.

"We're all very, very excited to be Team Nunavut and getting to represent [Nunavut] again at the national level," said Leigh Gustafson, the second on the team.

Iqaluit's curling rink was closed last year to be a set for the new show North of North.

That, combined with a lack of available players, according to Peter Van Strien, the secretary-treasurer of the Nunavut Curling Association, led them to decide not to field a team in Calgary last year.

But players returning and the reopening of the rink has helped the team prepare for next month's tournament in Thunder Bay, Ont.

And the team's fans across Canada have gotten behind them once again.

"People are pumped for Nunavut to come back," said Gustafson.

Julia Weagle, sister of three-time Scotties winner Lisa, will skip Team Nunavut at this year's tournament.

Gustafson will be making her second appearance at the tournament, after serving as the alternate for Team Nunavut in 2023.

Even Curling Canada is happy that Nunavut is making its return to the Scotties.

"That reminds us that it's a true national championship," said Al Cameron, Curling Canada's director of communication and media relations. "It's great that all of our 14 member associations will be represented."

Van Strien agrees.

"I think it's one of the best sporting events in Canada because every area of the country is represented," he said. "It loses a bit if not every member association is in the competition."