TORINO, Italy - When Canada enters the Inalpi Arena on January 13th for the opening ceremonies of the FISU 2025 Winter World University Games in Torino, Italy, they'll be led by a pair of student-athletes with a tremendous track record of excellence in and out of sport.
 
Today, U SPORTS announced curler Catherine Clifford (University of Alberta) and Kai Edmonds (Toronto Metropolitan University) as flag bearers for Team Canada for the Games.
 
Clifford has had a storied career on the ice for the Pandas, winning three U SPORTS National championships. She qualified for the 2021 FISU Games in Lucerne, competed at the 2023 Games in Lake Placid, New York, and returns to the Games with her University of Alberta teammates in Torino. Off the ice, she has an outstanding record of academic success, earning U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian honours four times. Additionally, Clifford's leadership is evident in her work with U of A's University Athletics Board, mentors younger athletes, and exemplifies the qualities of a deserving flag bearer.

"Fifteen years ago I was curling in an after-school program in rural Alberta and today I have not only the opportunity to wear the maple leaf, but to lead Team Canada into opening ceremonies," said Clifford. "This is a dream come true and I could not feel more excited and honoured."
 
Clifford and Edmonds will lead the Canadian contingent at the FISU Games Opening Ceremonies, on January 13^th at the Inalpi Arena.
 
"It is an incredible honor to announce Catherine Clifford and Kai Edmonds as our flag-bearers for the opening ceremony of the FISU Winter Games. Catherine and Kai exemplify the very best of what it means to be a student-athlete, excelling both on the field of play and in their academic and community endeavors," remarked Canada's Chef de Mission, Julie Dionne. "Their achievements, leadership, and dedication inspire all of us, and they embody the spirit and excellence of Team Canada."