Why do nl have 2 teams in the brier

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Newfoundland and Labrador has two teams in the Brier because the province is represented by two separate curling associations: Curling Newfoundland and Labrador (CNL) and the Labrador Curling Association (LCA). This arrangement dates back to 1975 when Labrador was granted its own entry, making Newfoundland and Labrador the only province with two automatic berths. In the 2024 Brier, Newfoundland and Labrador was represented by Team Gushue (CNL) and Team Smith (LCA), continuing this unique tradition.

Key Facts

Newfoundland and Labrador has two teams in the Brier due to separate curling associations: Curling Newfoundland and Labrador (CNL) and Labrador Curling Association (LCA)
Labrador gained its own Brier entry in 1975, making it the only province with two automatic berths
In 2024, Newfoundland and Labrador was represented by Team Gushue (CNL) and Team Smith (LCA)
The arrangement reflects historical and geographical distinctions between Newfoundland and Labrador regions
This dual representation has been in place for nearly 50 years since Labrador's 1975 entry

Overview

The Brier, Canada's national men's curling championship, features teams from each province and territory, but Newfoundland and Labrador stands out with two automatic entries. This unique arrangement stems from the province's historical and administrative structure. Newfoundland and Labrador consists of two distinct regions: the island of Newfoundland and the mainland region of Labrador, which have separate curling governing bodies. Curling Newfoundland and Labrador (CNL) represents the island portion, while the Labrador Curling Association (LCA) governs curling in Labrador. This dual representation was formalized in 1975 when Labrador was granted its own entry into the Brier, recognizing its geographical separation and distinct curling community. The tradition continues today, with both associations sending their championship teams to compete under the Newfoundland and Labrador banner.

How It Works

The mechanism for Newfoundland and Labrador's dual representation operates through separate qualification processes. Each curling association - CNL for Newfoundland and LCA for Labrador - conducts its own provincial championship tournament. The winning team from each association earns an automatic berth to represent Newfoundland and Labrador at the Brier. This means the province fields two distinct teams: one champion from the island region and one from Labrador. Both teams compete under the Newfoundland and Labrador name but represent their respective associations. The system ensures both regions have direct representation at Canada's premier curling event, unlike other provinces where a single champion represents the entire province. This arrangement has been consistently applied since 1975, with both associations maintaining their separate identities while contributing to the province's overall curling legacy.

Why It Matters

This dual representation matters because it preserves regional identities within curling while maintaining provincial unity. It acknowledges Labrador's distinct geographical and cultural position while ensuring both regions have equal opportunity to compete at the national level. The arrangement has produced notable successes, including Brad Gushue's historic 2017 Brier victory representing CNL. It also increases curling participation across the province by giving both regions direct pathways to national competition. For fans, it means double the representation from Newfoundland and Labrador, creating more opportunities for local teams to achieve national recognition. The system demonstrates how sports can accommodate regional distinctions within provincial frameworks, serving as a model for balancing local identity with national competition structures.