Curling is not just a game; there’s an entire culture built up. It’s a highly social sport and is often seen as a focal point of community life.
As curlers, we try to promote and encourage courtesy and etiquette on and off the ice. Curling has always been known for good sportsmanship among its members.
Every curling game begins and ends with a hearty handshake of friendship and goodwill to both teammates and opponents by wishing them, “good curling” or “good game.”
Curling clubs are built on their warm, positive friendly atmosphere. While most of the courtesies will not be found in rulebooks, they are practised by all curlers who understand the true culture. Curlers play to win, of course, but the spirit puts honour and relationships above winning and losing. Naturally there are exceptions, but curling is about as far as you can get from the ruthless competition of highly commercial sports. Get to know your fellow curlers – they’ll become your newest lifetime friend.
To wear or not to Wear
There has been much discussion about the benefits of wearing headgear while curling.
One good fall could lead to a potential concussion. Some curling clubs have implemented mandatory headgear for their junior curlers.
If you decide that you want to make the big leap into a helmet, there are several options including a hockey helmet, a bike helmet or a new product on the market called an ice halo (and no I’m not advertising for ice halo). The ice halo is a protective headband made of lightweight foam covered with a micro-fleece. It wraps around your head and secures with an adjustable velcro strip. If fashion is important to you, the ice halo comes in many different colours and fabrics.
Around the House
Our annual Christmas open house and member appreciation will be held Dec 17. Music by Uncorked and dinner is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The turkey shoot is at 6:30 p.m. Raffles, door prizes and much, much more. Tickets available at the curling club for only $20 (includes a beverage).
Last day of curling before the Christmas break is Dec. 23 and play resumes on Jan. 2, 2012.
Senior Men’s Bonspiel – Jan. 9 to 11, 2012
Men’s Open Bonspiel- Jan. 20 to 22, 2012
Okanagan High School Playdowns – Jan. 27 to 29, 2012.
Western Mixed Open Bonspiel – March 2 to 4, 2012
Kim Kirkham is the spokeperson for the Penticton Curling Club.