Hall of Famer
Russ Howard
Inducted in 2013
Member Details
Career Highlights
Represented Ontario as a skip at the Brier
Brier Champion
World Curling Champion
Innovator of the “four rock rule” or “Moncton rule”, which increased offense in curling
Represented New Brunswick as a skip at the Brier
Gold medal, men’s curling, Olympic Winter Games in Torino
Story
Russ Howard is one of Canada’s most decorated curlers ever to slide down a sheet of ice. He has appeared in 14 Brier Championships (winning in 1987 and 1993), winning two World Championship titles (1987, 1993) and winning Olympic gold in 2006. Add to all the trophies, medals and titles Howard has won, he has also changed the sport of curling, literally. By introducing the Moncton rule (now known as the Free Guard Zone), it revolutionized the game of curling by making it more strategic and exciting. The new rule was eventually adopted internationally and has resulted in the sport growing in popularity.
His determination to improve the game of curling has led to his transition into broadcasting. His ability to educate and make the game of curling strategic and exciting has helped increase the exposure of the sport. He was a great ambassador for the sport of curling during his playing career and continues to be so even after his retirement.