Brier Champion Pat Simmons Pat Simmons named head ice technician at Moose Jaw Curling Centre

Canadian curling icon and Moose Jaw native Pat Simmons has been named head ice technician at the Temple Gardens Centre.

In addition, CURLSASK has designated the Moose Jaw Curling Centre as a high-performance regional training centre, which will offer elite training opportunities for athletes across Saskatchewan.

"The designation of the Moose Jaw Curling Centre as a regional high-performance training centre represents a proud and meaningful milestone for our organization. In collaboration with CURLSASK, we remain deeply committed to fostering excellence in curling and to inspiring athletes across all levels of participation," said Shaunna Fritzler, general manager of the Temple Gardens Centre, in a prepared release.

Fritzler also celebrated Simmons' expertise and extensive background in curling, saying his experience "will provide significant value to all members of our curling community—whether participating recreationally or competing at an elite level."

Simmons' accolades on the ice include back-to-back Tim Hortons Brier championships in 2014 and 2015. He is a two-time representative for Canada at the World Men's Curling Championship, winning the bronze medal in 2015, and has won multiple provincial titles with both Saskatchewan and Alberta teams.

In a prepared release, the Oak View Group, which manages the facility, said: "Pat brings a wealth of experience to his new role, not only from decades of competitive play but also from his deep understanding of ice conditions critical for championship-level curling."

"As head ice technician, he will be responsible for ensuring world-class playing conditions at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre and contributing to the ongoing development of athletes at every level," the release continued.

"I am thrilled for the opportunity to work closely with a great team with the goal to continue to make everyone's curling experience a very positive one, and to partner with Temple Gardens Centre for the development of Saskatchewan's CURLSASK Regional Training Centre — the hub for in-season high-performance training and development," said Simmons.

"It will be exciting to continue the journey of helping our facility reach its full potential — whether for member benefit on a daily basis, the opportunity to host exciting events in the future, and of course, CurlSask's high-performance program and national championship preparation for both teams and individual athletes alike."