UPEI Panthers Men's Curling Team aims for breakthrough at AUS Championships
After making their return to league play last season, the UPEI Panthers men's curling team is eager to build on that momentum at the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Championships, set for January 2–5 at Halifax’s Mayflower Curling Club.
By Thomas Becker
After making their return to league play last season, the UPEI Panthers men's curling team is eager to build on that momentum at the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Championships, set for January 2–5 at Halifax's Mayflower Curling Club.
Following a 1-3 round-robin record that left them just shy of the semifinals in 2024, the Panthers are focused on taking positive strides in 2025.
Leading the team is skip Jack MacFadyen, a Charlottetown native studying business. MacFadyen, who'll be throwing third during the championship, brings a wealth of experience, having represented PEI at the U18 and U21 levels.
Reflecting on last year's experience, he acknowledges the tough competition but remains optimistic about his team's prospects.
"Knowing we'll face strong teams pushes us to approach every game with a focused and competitive mindset—and the belief that we can come out on top," MacFadyen said.
Liam Kelly, the 21-year-old chemistry major from Stratford, PE, plays lead. Kelly brings valuable experience, having represented PEI at the 2019 Canada Winter Games and U21 Nationals in 2022 and 2023. He also competed at the 2025 FISU World Mixed Doubles Qualifier.
Newcomer Luke Butler replaces Robert Shaw and will throw second. Butler, a business student from Charlottetown, earned his spot on the team after winning the U21 Men's Curling Provincial Championship last year. He's eager to make his mark and contribute to the team's success in Halifax.
At the critical fourth position is Chase MacMillan from New Haven, PE. MacMillan is a 21-year-old sustainable design engineering major with an impressive curling resumé, including a U18 provincial title in 2021 and three consecutive Provincial Junior Championships from 2021 to 2023. His experience on the national stage, competing in events like the 2022 World Junior Canadian Qualifier and the New Holland Canadian Juniors, adds quality depth to the Panthers' lineup.
With a mix of seasoned talent and fresh energy, the Panthers aim to make a deeper run this year. Facing a field of elite university teams, their preparation will be tested as they chase a spot in the semifinals and beyond.