An Eriksdale Curling Club volunteer is putting the curling club on the map.
Donna Pool is back on the curling board as treasurer, sitting in the position for two years so far this time. Since returning to the board, Pool has helped get lots off the ground at the curling club, the biggest being the new ice plant. She searches for and applies for grants for new projects, which she says is long and arduous.
The Eriksdale Curling Club also started sponsoring school curlers on Fridays this year, seeing them arrive around 11 a.m. and stay until 3:15 p.m. Pool is one of the mentors for the young curlers and said they’re quick learners and fun for her to teach.
“It is very gratifying seeing youth curlers, school curlers, high school curlers, who have competed in provincial playdowns, seniors, and persons with limited physical capabilities enjoying the sport in a safe and welcoming environment,” she said.
Pool also noted the club’s stick curling program expanded this year, seeing its senior curlers compete competitively provincially.
“The sport of curling offers an alternative to the more obvious sports,” said Pool. Rural youth have difficulty experiencing opportunities because of travel and financial constraints. Curling contributes to the well-being of our residents through exercise and socialization.”
Pool also applied for funding from the Healthy Together Now initiative for floor curling equipment on behalf of the curling club. Now, the community plays every Friday afternoon, seeing a big turnout each time. The club is hoping to host a wind-up spiel with everyone soon. This equipment is also available to the high school to use with students in their phys ed classes.
The Eriksdale Curling Club also received funding from the Doc Seaman Foundation and the Calgary Foundation to run a youth curling clinic. Kerri and Kyle Einarson instructed Grade 5 to 8 students.
Pool said the entire board behind the curling rink is dedicated to it and its success. She referred to the group as a “small but mighty community” that has volunteered through many adverse conditions.
