Saskatchewan, October 12, 2023 – The world of curling is in mourning as beloved coach Gene Friesen of Saskatchewan has passed away, leaving family, friends, and colleagues devastated. The heartbreaking news was confirmed on Thursday, October 12, 2023, by CURLSASK through a poignant post that expressed the deep loss felt by the entire curling community: “It is with sadness that we share the passing of Gene Friesen. Gene was a dear friend to the curling community in so many different areas.”
Gene Friesen, a certified Level 4 Coach, was widely respected for his unwavering dedication and immense contributions to the sport of curling at various levels – provincial, national, and international. His coaching journey began in 1974 in Nipawin, where he mentored teams from the High School and Junior Program until 1995. During this time, his coaching prowess led teams to an impressive total of 7 Provincial titles, including 3 High School and 4 Provincial Junior titles.
In 1984, Friesen generously shared his expertise by serving as a Master Course Conductor for the Saskatchewan Curling Association (SCA). He imparted his profound understanding of the game to future coaches and instructors, conducting numerous Level 1, 2, and Level 3 Technical courses. Additionally, he served as an instructor at the SCA’s summer curling camp for over a decade, shaping the skills of aspiring curlers.
Friesen’s impact extended far beyond Canadian borders. In 1996, he began a remarkable journey with the Japanese Curling Program, where he became a National and Olympic Team Trainer. Affectionately known as “Gene-son” in Japan, he coached the Makoto Tsuruga Team at the 1997 World Juniors in Karuizawa and represented Japan as a Coach at the 1998 Olympic Games in Nagano. His influence also reached Canadian shores when he coached British Columbia’s Kelly Law Team at the Canadian Curling Trials in 2001, securing their spot to represent Canada at the Olympics in Salt Lake City.
CURLSASK shared a post on fb on the death of Gene Friesen:
It is with sadness that we share the passing of Gene Friesen 💚Gene was a dear friend to the curling community in so many different areas. Recognized in the curling world for his extensive involvement in coaching and instruction at the provincial, national and international levels. Gene coached the 1998 Olympic Games in Nagano as Coach for the Japanese Teams. In 2001, Gene coached BC’s Kelly Law Team at the Olympics in Salt Lake City and brought home an Olympic Bronze medal for Canada 🥉.In 2002 recipient of the CCA Award of Achievement which recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to curling. Gene went on to coach team McKee to the Brier in 2010. Gene was also heavily involved in the Prairieland Curling Camp Series from year 2 in 1987 to 1999. 🏆Gene will be greatly missed in the Saskatchewan curling community 🥌
As the curling world mourns the loss of Gene Friesen, his legacy as a dedicated coach and mentor will continue to inspire generations of curlers. His passion, expertise, and kindness have left an indelible mark on the sport he loved, reminding us all of the profound impact one person can have on a community.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
