Jennifer Jones seems to have it all- and do it all! She’s a champion curler who skipped (captained) her Manitoba team to the Scott Tournament of Hearts in 2002, a successful corporate lawyer, and most importantly, Jennifer has the unwavering and loyal support of her boyfriend, family and friends, in all that she endeavours to do. Which begs the question, “how does she do it?”

Her Focus, Her Success: Unlike the other Winnipeg kids that grew up racing around curling clubs while their parents took to the ice, Jennifer was the one child that sat patiently by the glass, watching both her parents curl- fascinated by the game. This intrigue translated into action as she soon took up the sport; and this passion for curling has never once wavered. As Jennifer puts it, “When I am playing the game I am truly happy and content”. Jennifer’s intense focus on the ice lead to one of her most glorious moments as a young curler- winning the coveted Canadian Junior Championships in 1994. As important as that win was, it was her loss in the same event in 1991 that made her the great curler she is today. “It was my first big loss…but it was probably the best thing that ever happened to me. It made me work harder and made me more determined than ever to win one day”. And win she has. Since her days as Canadian Junior Champion, Jennifer has consistently been a competitive threat on the Canadian curling landscape. In winter 2002, Team Jones became Team Manitoba, representing their home province in the Scott Tournament of Hearts, Canada’s women’s national championship. In a country where almost one million people curl, it’s difficult to be the best. But Jennifer’s good at getting what she wants- the old fashioned way- by working hard. “Where there’s a will there’s a way. I’ve had a job since I was 14, curled and went to school and people told me that I wouldn’t be able to do it all,” says Jones. This incredible work ethic is the primary reason why Jennifer Jones has been able to balance her busy life as a successful athlete and corporate lawyer- practicing with the law-firm of Aikins, MacAulay & Thorvaldson in downtown Winnipeg. There’s no doubt however that Jones’ success in balancing it all, has a lot to do with her role models- her parents Carol and Larry. “They have both worked very hard throughout my life and always had time for me. They are my biggest fans”.

Her Advice: The grueling hours of being both a competitive curler and a corporate lawyer leave little time for family, friends and especially, self. And while it’s her sleep that she says suffers the most, she takes great care to stay as healthy as possible. “I try to go to the gym in the morning before work and I practice everyday. I take vitamins daily and try to eat lots of fruit and vegetables, as well as drink lots of water to remain hydrated.” One of the hardest things for Jones, is missing out on key family gatherings when she’s on the road competing. However, it’s her family’s support that helps to put her mind at ease. “It makes such a difference to know that my friends and family are happy that I’m curling,” she says.

If Jones is considered to be an Everyday Champion, then she says it is proof that hard work really does pay off. “I am proud of my accomplishments but I’m even more proud of the way I got there.”

For more information on Team Jennifer Jones, click here.

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