CANORA - Curling season in Canora got underway on Nov. 24, and as has been the case in recent years, curlers of all ages are excited to get back on the ice, according to Aaron Herriges, director of leisure services.
Afternoon drop-in curling takes place Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, with a 1 p.m. start. “Come early to join,” encourages Herriges. Curlers may sign in as individuals, since teams are created daily on a random basis.
Youth curling is scheduled for Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Terry Wilson is the instructor, along with help from parents.
Thursday night means Rec League action, with 16 teams and two draws at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
“Registration is full currently and the schedule is made but we are always looking for spare players,” said Herriges “Contact the club if you are interested in being a spare.
“It’s an ever-growing, fun league for all skill levels; beginners to experienced. The idea is to integrate beginners and experienced players to build up the player base. This model is working very well as we’ve seen noticeable improvement among all who take part and it’s great to see. It also has become a welcome place for people to get out and socialize.”
Scheduled bonspiels:
- Kick Off Bonspiel, Dec. 3;
- Holiday Bonspiel, Dec. 29-31;
- Seniors Bonspiel, January (date to be announced);
- Town & Country Bonspiel, Jan. 25-28;
- Ladies Bonspiel, Feb. 10-12;
- Two-person Stick Bonspiel, Feb. 20 (Family Day);
- Mens Bonspiel, Mar. 1-4, and
- Mixed Windup Bonspiel, Mar 23-25.
Herriges said there are many volunteers who always seem to be available to keep things running smoothly on and off the ice, whether during bonspiels or regular weekly play.
“Help is always needed to get the ice ready which includes moving rocks, flooding, and painting, Those reliable volunteers include: Robert Waselenko, Don Probe, Bill Foreman and Brian Herriges.”
At the fall AGM, the following executive was established: Terry Wilson, new president; Sheldon Derkatch, new vice-president; Joni Petrychyn, new treasurer, and Brigitte Herriges, returning secretary. Returning board members are Al Palagian and Bob Kolodziejski. The returning ice makers for the new season are Mark and Kelly McTavish. Sheila Dmitruik will once again provide concession services.
“Our goal is to provide a fun and exciting atmosphere for beginner curlers and veteran curlers alike,” said Wilson. “People are encouraged to sign up for bonspiels well in advance to avoid missing out. We also offer private bookings and if you are new to the game and want a few pointers, we can help with that too. “Curling is a game that can be played by young and old with all levels of skill intertwined, which in my opinion is why our Thursday night league is so popular. If your aren’t playing you can come check out the action from the lounge and enjoy a delicious meal or your favourite beverage.
“The executive is constantly looking for ways to improve our service and grow the game. We encourage anyone who has fresh new ideas or wants more information to contact us at canoracurling@gmail.com or via Facebook,” Wilson concluded.
