From March 24-31, Queen's Women's Curling's Mia Toner and Sadie McCutcheon competed in the Canadian Under-21 Curling Championships in Fort McMurray, Alta.

Toner and McCutcheon qualified for the national tournament through provincial game play. Toner represented Northern Ontario while Sadie represented Ontario.

Both players represented their respective teams well, with McCutcheon's team achieving a silver medal finish.

"Our team has worked so hard this year and I'm so thankful for all the support we got along the way and all the effort that my teammates put in," McCutcheon reflected.

The tournament took place over the course of eight days, with six days of pool play and two days of playoffs.

For both curlers, one the highlights of representing their province at such a large scale is the excitement and enthusiasm from the crowd.  

"I just really like playing in the arena. Usually curling is played in curling clubs but when they have big events like this then you get to play in the area and it's just a really cool atmosphere. It's really nice to see everyone in the stands cheering on their province," Toner said.

"Playing in an arena would have to be my favorite part as well. Being able to look up into the stands and see so many people, knowing they're all there to watch you curl," McCutcheon echoed.

Adding to the excitement was the opportunity to play alongside student-athletes from other OUA institutions.

Playing on different teams also meant that Toner and McCutcheon faced off against those that have been long time teammates.

"I feel like the curling community is very niche and it's a very is sportsmanship-oriented game so as much it's a little bit weird playing against people you played with in the past it's also kind of fun that you get to see people at these big events that are also your friends. On and off the ice, it doesn't really change that," Toner remarked.

As they represented different parts of the province Toner and McCutcheon also played a match against each other.

"When I played Mia at nationals, I was a little bit nervous but it's so much fun to be able to play against people you know and then after the game you can talk about your experience. Everybody's super friendly, it's honestly such a great supportive environment," McCutcheon said.

That supportive environment - which is characteristic of curling tournaments - was created by their friends and family in Fort Murray but was also assisted by the well wishes from their Queen's community.

"I felt so much support from coaches and other teammates throughout that week. They've really helped me to become very confident in the game and I know that no matter what there are always going to be people there supporting me," McCutcheon remarked.  

Heading into next year, Toner and McCutcheon are excited to play alongside their Queen's curling family.

"This was my first year at Queen's and my first year away from home and I don't think I could have had a better experience. I love my team. I love my coaches. It's really special the dynamics that we have on and off the ice. We all get along so well and it just makes curling together even more fun," Toner added.