Numbers are up slightly from the average for the Sundre Junior Curling Club, whose members will soon be hitting the ice for another season.
Jill Fee, club president, was at the Sundre Curling Rink on Wednesday, Oct. 9 during a registration drive.
While registration will remain ongoing, Fee said last week that there are 33 curlers signed up, a modest increase of the average of about 30.
“We had quite a few that registered at the back-to-school barbecue, more than normal,” said Fee, adding there are still also a few stragglers coming in.
Many of them are returning curlers who have been building up their experience over the past few years, she said, adding groups are usually split between ages 11 and under and 12 and up.
She said the club will continue to accept registrations essentially throughout the year, and past the season’s halfway point can offer a pro-rated, reduced fee if, for example, someone is signing up for the last month or two.
Some years have higher numbers of younger curlers who are interested in being introduced to the sport, but this year has a larger group of veterans, she said.
“We’re trying to get them going to more out-of-town bonspiels this year,” she said, adding the club will be offering new jackets to have them looking as sharp as possible when away representing the community.
Scheduling and making arrangements to participate in tournaments on the road can be challenging, but the club intends to encourage attendance in those events, she said.
Practices start on Wednesday, Nov. 6, and she said parents who might be interested are welcome to bring along a child to try out the sport and see whether they want to commit to joining the club.
Anyone who would like to lend a hand is also welcome, she said.
“We always need help.”
Bev Konschuh will again be returning this year to help coach.
“She is a super huge help. I’ve been doing it a few years, but still have questions — she always helps me out,” said Fee.
“I don’t know what we would do without her.”
Anyone who has questions or is interested in getting involved can reach Fee by texting or calling 403-638-1756.
Konschuh said two lessons are held every Wednesday, the first for newer curlers from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., with the second group of more experienced curlers hitting the ice from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
“In our family, curling is a passion — we love curling,” said Konschuh when asked what’s inspired her to remain involved as a coach over the years.
“And I do really enjoy working with the kids.”
Having mentored numerous curlers over the past few years who have continued to develop and hone their abilities, Konschuh expressed a desire to help them reach their goal of competing at higher levels all the way up to provincials, and perhaps even beyond.
