When Victor Pietrangelo steps onto the curling ice, it isn’t just a game — it’s a testament to years spent under rink lights until closing time, honing a skill set now taking him to the world stage.

The fifth-year Brock University Co-op Accounting student and his mixed doubles partner, Jessica Zheng from the University of Waterloo, recently clinched victory at the FISU Curling Mixed Doubles Championship in Edmonton.

Their flawless run in the competition has secured their spot to represent Canada at the 2025 World University Games in Torino, Italy, in January.

Reflecting on his journey, Pietrangelo credits his intense academic program for his discipline.

“The Brock Co-op Accounting program has been intensive and taught me how to manage my time effectively,” he said.

Balancing work terms and academic life with athletic training sharpened his focus, which proved crucial in the pressure-cooker environment of high-stakes curling.

The road to the FISU championship was anything but assured.

After the disappointment of falling short at the U SPORTS competition last March, the pair faced months of uncertainty, awaiting confirmation of Canada’s participation in mixed doubles at the games. Their perseverance paid off when they learned in July that their dream would become reality.

Once in Edmonton, Pietrangelo and Zheng dominated, going undefeated in the round robin and outmatching their competition in the playoff rounds. However, the final was no walk in the park.

“We were behind 3-2 after the fourth end but took control in the fifth and sixth with crucial plays that turned the game,” Pietrangelo said.

A successful double takeout by Pietrangelo and strategic throws by Zheng pushed them to a 6-3 lead, a turning point he described as the moment he knew they could win.

John Sawchuk, head coach of the Brock curling team, wasn’t surprised by Pietrangelo’s success.

“I first met Victor as a 15-year-old who practically lived at the Niagara Falls rink, throwing stones until the lights went out,” Sawchuk said. “His work ethic extends to physical training, making him one of the fittest and strongest sweepers in the sport.”

That dedication has translated into a string of national accomplishments. Pietrangelo’s first big win came in 2022 with a U25 championship victory. He continued to prove his mettle, finishing second in 2023 before reclaiming the top spot in 2024.

Looking ahead, Pietrangelo and Zheng are preparing for the upcoming 2025 World University Games.

“Our goal is to bring back gold for Canada,” Pietrangelo said.

Their preparation includes competing in four to five events before Torino, potentially including the 2026 Olympic Trials — a proving ground where they could face the country’s elite.

As Sawchuk put it, Pietrangelo is “a quiet leader who leads by example,” elevating the skill of those around him. With his blend of tenacity and technical prowess, the Brock student-athlete is poised to leave a lasting mark on Canadian curling.