The Oliver Elks made their contribution to youth curling on November 19th. Pictured are Elks President Annie Zandvliet, Vice-President Gary Guraliuk, coaches Ray Minshull, Bruce Ramsey and Kelsey Becket along with 8 of our 23 juniors.
Youth League – the Future of Curling
The Oliver Curling Club has a very active Junior League. This is vital for the continued growth and long term viability of the sport. Curling has many advantages as a choice in winter sports. The risk of injury is very low, especially when compared to hockey or downhill skiing. The chance of advancing to Provincial, National or International competition is there for those who have the drive to become the best. Oliver has a good example in Julie Skinner (ne: Sutton) who, along with her twin sister Jodie, Dawn Rubner and Chris Thompson won the Canadian Junior Womens’ title in 1986. Julie subsequently competed in National, International and Olympic curling. Julie started as a junior in Oliver.
The cost of participating in curling is lower than most other sports, particularly when there are businesses and organizations in the community who see the value in the sportsmanship and social development aspects. We are fortunate to have many such entities willing to sponsor Junior Curling. These include Eastlink, Nulton Irrigation, Lions, Legion, Elks, Kiwanis, Subway, TRU Building Centre, Desert Hills winery, and Dr Jordan Noftle.
Annie, Bruce, Kelsey and Gary with the official presentation.