Arcola School recently hosted Curling Canada's “Rocks & Rings.” This uniquely Canadian program has introduced over one million students to the game of curling-and on Wednesday, Jan. 18, Arcola students from kindergarten to grade eight joined their ranks.
“This program is a great way for kids from throughout the province to be exposed to the sport of curling,” says instructor Callan Hamon of Regina, a teacher and member of the Jolene Campbell rink. “We can visit a community without a rink or a curling rink and kids from those places still get a chance to try the game.”
Even though Arcola has both a rink and a curling rink, bringing “Rocks & Rings” to the school is “Great!” says Arcola Curling Club President and school parent, Terri Lees. “We've been waiting for a chance to host the program for a couple of years. This will get more youth exposed to curling.”
“Not all of them can come to the (curling) rink and this will encourage them to give the sport a try.”
The one-day workshop- organized by Arcola School teacher, Judy Nalen- allowed each age group to receive a 40-minute coaching session from Harmon, which included an introduction to the game's fundamentals, curling etiquette and the opportunity to team up for sweeping and rock-throwing competitions. Wheeled, lightweight throwing rocks allowed the young curlers to learn the game within the confines of the school gym.
Hamon- one of two “Rocks & Rings” instructors in the province- says: “Curling is really Saskatchewan's game. I grew up with curling and as part of Jolene Campbell's rink, I've curled in the Scotties, so obviously, it's a big part of my life.”
“Growing up in Regina, I went to the (curling) rink a lot as a kid, because members of my family curled. I was in the Curl For Kids program in grade five or six and for me, it went from there.”
“But not every young person lives near a rink or has the chance to play the game,” adds Hamon. “I'm one of two instructors in this program. I cover the southern part of the province and I'm based in Regina. Our other instructor covers the north- from Saskatoon.”
“I've been doing this since October and we're busy. I'm on the road a lot, but it's not just smaller communities-I've been to schools in Moose Jaw, in Weyburn- It's not just a way to get kids exposed to the game, but the indoor rocks we use can be purchased by schools and organizations for an indoor gym or recess activity.”
“Curling is a sport that can be enjoyed throughout someone's entire lifetime and we're thrilled to expose young people to the game.”
Arcola School Vice-Principal Eugene Brown agrees, saying: “I like this program because it provides an opportunity for the kids to have a new experience. Whether it's an athletic or academic activity, it's great to be exposed to different things. And hopefully, that diversity will allow them to pick up a new interest that will enrich their lives.”
School parent and curler Stacy Brownridge of Arcola says: “It's great that this program has come to Arcola School. The biggest thing is that it exposes kids to the game and the kids have been so enthusiastic. This is a great opportunity for all of our students and it really supports our elementary youth curling program at the school.””
“The best way to sum it up is what I heard one little boy say today- “I've cheered so hard my hands hurt.'”
For more information visit: rocksandrings.com
