Airdrie’s curling community is abuzz as Aaron Sluchinski takes a significant step in his career by joining Team Koe, one of Canada’s top curling squads.
Although specific roles within the team have yet to be determined, Sluchinski is eager to contribute in any way he can. He expressed his excitement about playing alongside Team Koe's skip, Kevin Koe, noting, "It’s going to be really nice to be on his side for once."
🚨 Team Update: We are extremely excited to announce that Aaron Sluchinski will join Team Koe!
— TeamKevinKoe (@TeamKevinKoe) October 8, 2024
Aaron is the reigning Alberta Men’s Champion and we look forward to the knowledge and experience he will bring to the team. #curling pic.twitter.com/tKHbBejZ9n
Sluchinski noted that both he and Team Koe have faced challenges at the start of the season. After the recent departure of one of their players, the team reached out to him following his performance at a tournament in PEI. With a shared vision for success, he felt this was the right move for his career.
"I took a few days to evaluate the situation, and I decided that my goals aligned with theirs," he said.
The news of his transition surprised his former teammates, although some had anticipated it.
"It always sucks to give that news to teammates and friends," he admitted, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of his decision.
Nevertheless, he is confident that this opportunity is one he could not pass up. Looking ahead, Sluchinski is focused on qualifying for the Olympic trials at the end of the season, hoping to secure a spot at the Olympics—an ultimate aspiration for any curler.
He is also keen to compete at the Brier, Canada’s national curling championship, for which Team Koe is well-known.
Sluchinski's mixed doubles partnership with Amanda remains unaffected by his move to Team Koe. "They had essentially the same schedule as us," he explained, which allowed him to balance both commitments.
Reflecting on this new chapter, Sluchinski recognizes the significance of joining such a prestigious team. "It makes you feel like you finally made the big leagues," he said, looking forward to competing alongside Koe and the rest of the team.
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