More Than Curling, It’s Community As the long winter months approach, many people begin looking for ways to stay active while escaping the colder weather. For seniors especially, finding an activity that combines light exercise, friendly competition and meaningful social connections can make all the difference. The St. Thomas Curling Club believes it has exactly that. Whether you’ve watched curling on television for years or have never thrown a rock in your life, the club’s Learn to Curl program is designed to help you feel comfortable from your very first visit. “There were a lot of new members who had never been on the ice before,” says Craig Carman, Designer of the Learn to Curl program. “We needed a standardized program where someone could walk in off the street, complete the course, and be integrated onto any team.” The six-week Learn to Curl program teaches participants everything they need to know, from balance and delivering a rock, to sweeping, strategy, scoring and the etiquette of the game. By the end of the course, new curlers have the confidence to join one of the club’s leagues. Best of all, no experience is required. Participants only need clean indoor shoes and comfortable clothing. The club provides the brooms, sliders and other equipment, and for anyone with mobility or balance concerns, stick curling is taught as an alternative to the traditional delivery.
“There really isn’t a fitness requirement,” Ellen Luft, Club President, explains. “If someone can’t slide, we teach them to use a stick so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the game.” While the curling is enjoyable, many members say it’s the friendships that keep them coming back. “The social aspect is equally as important for many of our members,” says Eric Miles, who is taking over leadership of the Learn to Curl program this season. “People enjoy the camaraderie, spending time with teammates after games and getting to know other members.” That welcoming atmosphere has made a difference for many seniors. “We’ve had people join after losing a spouse because they were looking for something to do,” Craig says. “One gentleman started curling for the first time at 83 years old, and now he’s curling three times a week.” If you’ve ever wondered whether curling might be for you, the club’s Open House is the perfect opportunity to find out. It takes place October 6, 7, and 8, from 7 pm to 9 pm, giving visitors the chance to tour the club, meet members, ask questions and even try the ice before registering for the Learn to Curl program. Sometimes the hardest part is taking that first step onto the ice. After that, you may just discover a new hobby, new friends and a community that will keep you coming back year after year. BE THE DIFFERENCE Become a Mentor
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Page 10 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • September 2026
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