Curling alive and growing in Emo

The Emo Curling Club is well into planning for this year’s season, with open league registration to take place next Wednesday (Nov.) 4 from 7-8:30 p.m.
“We’ve already signed up 12 teams from last year,” enthused club president Dave Hughes president of the club.

“But we’re looking for more!”
The Wednesday league will begin Nov. 18 and the Thursday one on Nov. 19.
The cost per team for the entire season is $600.
The club also will be hosting two evenings of open ice and instruction tomorrow (Nov. 5) and again next Thursday (Nov. 12) for those who still are learning or would like to develop their skills.
“New comers are definitely welcome,” Hughes stressed.
Curling has been a valuable part of the winter scene in Emo since about 1940.
Except for a few years when the facility was out of commission, curlers both young and old have enjoyed meeting at the rink for some friendly competition.
Since the building and ice surface were refurbished, organizers slowly have been attracting some of the long-time curlers as well as an enthusiastic group of beginners to the club.
“We want to build on the successes of the past and make the Emo Curling Club as strong as it used to be,” Hughes remarked.
He also plans on continuing the kids’ program that was so well-attended last year
The club will be looking for high school students who would like to help run the program and accumulate some volunteer hours towards their requirements to graduate.
Hughes also said the Emo club is looking at the possibility of hosting a regional playdown next year.
Organizers also are planning to hold a bonspiel of their own during the coming season.
As well, there will be the popular Boxing Day bonspiel, as well as the annual Emo Inn bonspiel for those who enjoy the level of competition that accompanies a weekend of curling.
Hughes said he would like to see an afternoon league for seniors, but that would require someone who is willing—and has the time—to organize it.
The canteen at the curling rink will be operated by Erin Oltsher this winter.
A menu has yet to be announced, but if you are a spectator and would like to watch the action on the ice, there certainly will be some good food to enjoy.
As well, the club is licensed under the LCBO.
If you are an avid curler, one who’s been out of action for a while, or someone who would like to learn the game, register your team next week.
And if you are a curling fan, plan on catching some great games as the season progresses.
For more information, call Hughes at 482-3550.