Canada's top curlers want changes to format, tiebreaker on Grand Slam circuit

Displeased with a number of unilateral decisions made by Grand Slam of Curling organizers, several top-level curlers have voiced their concerns to see changes at the remaining three events on the circuit's calendar.

A group of prominent players recently met with organizers to discuss format, tiebreaker and pre-game setup adjustments that were implemented without their input at the first two Slam stops of the season.

"Change is always difficult," said Team Homan second Emma Miskew. "I think in this situation the biggest overall feeling from the players is that it would have been nice to be consulted or asked."

The meeting was held a few days after the recent Kioti National in Pictou County, N.S. Sources involved in the process, who requested anonymity given the ongoing nature of the discussions, said the initial round of talks went well.

The next stop on the Grand Slam of Curling -- a series that's owned and operated by Sportsnet -- is the Dec. 12-17 World Financial Group Masters in Saskatoon.

Conversations were expected to continue but it was unclear if or when changes would be made.

"There are discussions and conversations going on between Sportsnet and some players to try to find some middle ground," Miskew said. "That's all the players want is just to be heard a little bit in these situations."

At the National, some teams were eliminated at 2-2 due to cumulative shootout numbers -- pre-game draws to the button to determine which team gets hammer -- rather than traditional tiebreaker games.

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In addition, each 16-team draw was split into four groups, but teams did not play games within their own pool. The top eight teams advanced to the playoffs.

Some players