The third year of these programs has ended, with this season alone attracting almost 300 people in nine draws held on five dates. Each Try Curling event filled quickly with many on the waiting list. The number of participants in the adaptive curling events held on each of these dates has grown each year with new and repeat attendees at each event as word of this program spreads. Besides attracting new members to our club and contributing over $7,000 of income, these events have more than fulfilled our agreement to replace ice skating with opportunities for members of the community of all ages and abilities to experience the fun sport of curling.
Thanks to the members of the Try/Adaptive Curling committee - Lauren Robb, Sarah Carlson, Molly Schicantek, Joe Matel, and Harold Paul - for their contributions in setting policies and giving direction to help the programs run smoothly. In addition, Lauren contributed by recruiting volunteers for each date and running the events; having enough volunteers was key to success. Sarah responded to all email and phone inquiries, and juggled the requests for changes – not easy! Joe handled the ice making (along with some loyal helpers) and developed friendships and creative problem-solving skills with some of the regulars at adaptive curling, including a curler who is blind.
Special thanks to Kelley Burian who so efficiently used her web skills and "give them what they want" attitude to keep the communication between the public and the club running smoothly.
Here are some try curlers comments from the season:
- Great People! Great Instruction!
- Love the game! Love the IPA (great!) Love the people…keep it up
- What a great time! ___were very helpful in explaining the game. Makes me want to join the club J
- So much fun…We loved our coaches
- Great afternoon with family and friends. ___&___ did a great job of sharing their love and knowledge of curling. Fun for all ages and abilities – thank you!
- This was super fun! My group had a blast and definitely what to come again! The people have been super generous and kind. Thanks so much! Very enjoyable- Thank you to all the volunteers who give their time to teach us.
- Thank you for a great intro to curling & warm WI welcome! We loved the instruction, teamwork, and culture at your club. Can’t wait to come back.
- Thank you for the fun curling lesson. Loved the simple intro to rules and skills and all the tips to help us curl better. Good Curling Guys
- Great instruction, excellent way to bond with family. J Thank you!
- This was such a fun and amazing afternoon. ___&___Did a wonderful job of instructing us and answering all our questions about curling. Thanks!
- Team 1 had the best coaches: ___&___ Thank you for sharing the sport & culture of curling. It was a very nice way to spend time with friends.
There is a common theme in these comment cards – we do have a great club because we have great members!! We’ve had groups come from as far away as Chicago, Madison, & Racine to experience our Try Curling program. A very heartfelt thanks to every club member who volunteered and earned the well-deserved respect and gratitude of participants!
With hopes for a great summer, anticipation for next season, and many thanks to all!
Allen Miller
