World-class curler Kerri Einarson and husband Kyle recently led a curling clinic in Eriksdale, with a particular focus on youth as the driving force for developing this foundational sport.
On March 2, 21 curlers aged nine to seventeen attended a curling clinic hosted by the Einarsons, including their two daughters, Khloe and Kamryn.
“Doing clinics like this one is so important for youth in sports and getting children involved in curling. It’s such a great sport, and I love giving back to this amazing game as much as I can,” said Kerri.
“Curling is a grass-roots sport, and we need to grow it more, so getting youth involved as much as we can will help.”
The Eriksdale Curling Club offers ‘learn to curl’ events like this one throughout the season. This is the first clinic with world-class curlers providing their knowledge, but certainly not the last.
The curlers were split into three groups in the morning. Kerry went back and forth between the groups, imparting her expertise to each individual. The clinic was filled with a variety of drills, sweeping tips, and delivery techniques. In the afternoon, they engaged in games while the instructors offered guidance on strategy.
Access Credit Union supplied drinks and snacks, and the Arena Cafe provided a delicious lunch for the group.
“The event was a huge success. Many of the curlers and their parents commented on how much fun they had and how much they learned. Viewers enjoyed watching Kerri and Kyle Einarson sharing their knowledge,” said Donna Pool, treasurer of the Eriksdale Curling Club and one of the clinic organizers.
Kerri instructs two of Eriksdale’s high school curlers, Aiden Spalding and Jersi Godfrey. Melanie Spalding contacted Kerri to schedule the event, Pool added.
Freya Darknell, a Grade 6 student and attendee of the clinic, expressed her enjoyment in meeting the Einarson family.
“They taught me lots of tips and tricks about sliding out, throwing the rock and how to position my body in the hack to get the perfect shot…Thanks to Eriksdale Curling Club and everyone for organizing the amazing opportunity,” she said.
The curler’s top pick of the day’s games was aiming and throwing the rock between two cups.
Darknell participates in the curling club’s after-school program on Wednesdays, run by Brad and Dianna Drews for students in grades five and up. The club offers affordable rates to its school curlers with free curling on Fridays, monitored by curling club members.
“There are very limited opportunities for youth to socialize and exercise and have fun in rural Manitoba. The clinic showcases the skills of our curlers while offering the opportunity to excel at a higher level. Curling is part of our fabric and offers a very affordable sport. Community does not exist without our youth,” said Pool.
The clinic would not have been possible without the generous grant given by the Darryl K. Seaman Canadian Hockey Fund at the Calgary Foundation.
Attendees from the local community came by the clinic to observe the event at various times.
According to Pool, the community was thrilled by the incredible opportunity presented to its youth and was grateful for Kerri, Kyle, and their family’s selfless dedication.
“The Einarsons are amazing ambassadors, focusing on fun, learning, and sportsmanship. Kerri, having worn the Canadian flag on her back, speaks for itself. Sharing the ice with the Einarson family provided a glimpse into the bigger picture of curling.”
“Kyle and I had so much fun teaching last weekend. There were so many talented kids that I could see having a future in this sport. Our daughters, Khloe and Kamryn, also helped us teach. They absolutely love the sport just as much as we do,” said Kerri.
As the curling season is coming to an end, Pool said plans are already underway for next year, including adding additional clinics and hopefully adding another world-class curler to the mix.
In 2025, the curling rink will mark its 60th anniversary. Keep an eye out for upcoming events that will be highlighted in the Express Weekly News next year.
