Pre-qualifying format a "huge opportunity" says Hansen

The location for the 2015 Scotties Tournament of Hearts was made official this week and everyone was overjoyed to know that they'd be heading to scenic Moose Jaw, home to the Snow Birds and giant murals. 

Along with the location, the announcement included the news (at least it's still probably news for some) that this event will see the change in format for the event. For the first time, it will include a pre-qualifying where the final field will be determined. There will be 15 teams for 12 spots, including a Northern Ontario entry. 

The CCA's Warren Hansen gushed about the format change to the Moose Jaw Times-Herald: 

"I think the change that we are actually going to see 15 teams eligible to participate in the Scotties is a huge milestone," Hansen stated. "It has been discussed for years and we had long, serious discussions two or three years ago and now we can bring it to fruition."The fact that every province and territory, including Northern Ontario, will have an opportunity to participate is a huge breakthrough."

Which I'm sure is exactly what they're thinking in Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Starting in 2015, the last-place finisher from 2014 will go into a pre-event qualifier along with Northern Ontario and two Territories entries. They'll play for the last spot into the 2015 field. The other three teams will be given a bag full of tokens for the Heart Stop Lounge.