Balmoral School principal Mark Lawson has been recognized as a Winnipeg Jets Community Hero for the month of November.
As president of the Keystone Rainbow Curling League — and an avid curler himself — Lawson has worked to create an inclusive and welcoming space for 2SLGBTQ+ curlers in Winnipeg.
“It’s been great that we’ve been able to carve out this inclusive space,” Lawson said. “I am really proud to see how we’ve grown over the years.”
Lawson has been involved with the league since 2011. Over the years, he has helped organize annual bonspiels, led learn-to-curl clinics and advocated for inclusive washrooms, Pride signage and rainbow rings painted directly onto the ice.
The Keystone Rainbow Curling League now consists of 45 teams that play every Sunday across three ice times at the Granite Curling Club. The league’s next goal is to welcome enough new teams to open a fourth draw in the evening.
Founded 20 years ago, the league has grown into one of the largest 2SLGBTQ+ curling leagues in Canada. Lawson said the organization also helped rekindle his own love for the sport.
“I was excited to find a positive and safe space to connect with the community. The league has become such an important part of my life. I’ve gained so many close friends — especially my teammates. It brought me back to curling after high school.”
Taking on the role of president felt meaningful to Lawson, who saw the league’s potential for continued growth and the opportunity to further strengthen its commitment to inclusivity.
Lawson said he was honoured to be nominated and selected as a Winnipeg Jets Community Hero, a program that celebrates Manitobans making meaningful contributions to their communities. As part of the recognition, Community Heroes receive two complimentary Jets tickets, a $100 food-and-beverage voucher and a feature on the Jets’ website and social media channels.
Lawson was nominated by Jenn Rands, the 2SLGBTQ+ community liaison for the Winnipeg Jets, and by the Rainbow Resource Centre.
Rands said that although she has never met Lawson, his impact on the 2SLGBTQ+ community is significant.
“He has been instrumental in making the Keystone Rainbow Curling League — and curling in Manitoba — more inclusive, welcoming and visibly supportive of 2SLGBTQ+ players,” she said. “Mark has helped shape the league into a true community by creating a space where queer curlers feel safe, seen and encouraged, whether they’re seasoned athletes or first-time players.”
She said his impact builds confidence in curlers and that he consistently finds ways to bring people together, adding that he goes above and beyond through volunteering, mentoring and advocating for inclusive practices within curling clubs.
“Through his volunteer work, mentorship and steady presence, he has helped create a culture that is warm, respectful and affirming for players of all identities and skill levels,” she said. “At his core, Mark leads with kindness and respect. He works every day to make curling accessible and affirming for everyone, and countless people have found belonging and community because of his commitment to community.”
Lawson attended the Jets’ Pride Night game on Nov. 1 against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he was recognized on the jumbotron and hosted an information booth highlighting the Keystone Rainbow Curling League.
“It was such a great feeling to be honoured,” he said. “I was very happy to see our community space being highlighted — it was truly a special moment.”
The Keystone Rainbow Curling League welcomes new members. More information is available at www.keystonecurling.com, by following @KeystoneCurling on Instagram and Facebook or by emailing keystonecurling@outlook.com.
