FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Curling is now played in over 100 countries throughout the world. In our community, it is played at our club beside the high school on Gustavus Street. Curlers are renowned to be friendly and sociable and we in Port Elgin like to think we uphold that reputation. In fact, our tag line is FUN! FITNESS! FRIENDSHIP!
Do I need any experience?
Absolutely not. You can join an eight week Learn to Curl program at the beginning of the season if you like, however if you just want to dive into a league, there are lots of us who will give you a hand and teach you on the fly.
Can I give it a shot before I commit?
Yes, there will be Open House on Saturday October 22nd from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. We invite you to join us, take to the ice and throw some rocks. Regular curling starts on Monday October 24th.
Can I take lessons?
We offer a Learn to Curl program which will start on Tuesday October 25th. Our friendly trainers will lead you through a program designed to equip anyone – irrespective of age, aptitude, social, competitive – with the fundamentals. The program costs $134, however this fee will be deducted from the membership fee if you join.
Can I play on a team with my friends and colleagues?
There are leagues on the various days of the week, both daytime and evening, that cater to different interests, levels of competitiveness, and time commitments. You can join as an individual or a couple - we’ll pair you up with others or, you may join as a team.
Do I have to show up each week?
We accommodate shifts and travel. Though a game usually requires four players on each team, many teams are comprised of five or more players. They work out a schedule amongst themselves that accommodates shifts and travel. Don’t have such a group? Talk to us, we’ll introduce you to others looking to put such a team together.
What does it cost?
Fees for individual members are geared to your circumstances and the amount you wish to play. The season is divided into two “draws”, before and after Christmas. You may play in either one or both. Likewise, if you wish to play in one league only, fees are less than unlimited play. The following are basic fees, including HST.
Full Membership 2 draw: $407.00
One draw full: $212.00
One league 2 draws: $315.00
One league 1 draw: $175.00
Junior: $60
Learn to Curl: $134
First time members get $60 discount per draw for the first season off full or one league membership!!
Are there established leagues I can join? Alternatively, can I just participate when I want?
There are various leagues and time slots:
- Open Social - A good place to get started. By “Open” we mean a team may be made up of any combination of males and females. By “Social” we mean it is made up of seasoned and new curlers - individuals, couples, groups – and not terribly competitive. The Open Social time slot is Tuesday evening.
- “Pay as you play” afternoon curling from 1:00 to 3:00 Tuesdays and Thursdays. Social and open to all.
- Skip’s Choice – a somewhat competitive open league on Thursday evening. A little experience is recommended.
- Doubles – Wednesday evening. You need a bit of experience for this one.
- Ladies league – Monday afternoons
- Men’s League – Monday evenings
- Junior (ages 8-13) – Sunday 1:00 to 2:30
- Friday evenings and weekends see us host group rentals, fun special events (ie black light curling), parties, and bonspiels. Weekend events provide an opportunity to participate outside of a scheduled commitment.
How do I join?
You can do it a few ways. A simple option is to go to the club website and follow the instructions to complete the registration form. This online registration will be open from September 1st through October 23rd. Alternatively, drop in and see us at in person registration from 7:00 to 9:00 on September 21st and 22nd or the Open House on Saturday October 22nd and we’ll sign you up. If you have any questions, call or email one of the contacts below – we’ll walk you through it.
Can I join at other times of the year?
Yes, you can join at anytime in the season. Just go to our website and contact one of our directors. We’ll get you familiarized and into a schedule that accommodates you.
What do I bring to play?
Curling is played on ice and involves some stretching. A warm sweater or jacket, gloves, and warm stretchy pants will keep you comfortable. Wear clean athletic shoes. In the early going we’ll provide brushes and grippers for your feet.
Are there any age or ability limitations?
Curling is a highly accessible sport. It is played by ages six to ninety, those with good knees and bad knees, and with any description of ability and disability. The “stick”, a device used to throw the rock from the standing position, has allowed many to stay in the game, or to engage and be proficient at the game, despite physical impediments.
Can I hold an event at the club – for example with my friends, company, family?
In a word, yes. The club may be rented for such occasions. A curling bonspiel (these are often called a funspiel) is a great team building exercise for a company or, a novel way to celebrate a birthday or other family occasion. We have a lounge, kitchen and bar. Talk to us and we’ll work out the details.
Who do I contact for more information? Web site – www.portelgincurlingclub.com
Doug Flowers: 519 386 2323 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Doug Hamilton: 519 483 5517 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Joel Smith: (705) 816-3517 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
