Ponoka’s young curlers are getting back into rock throwing as the youth curling program started last week.
Nov. 1 marked the first day of the program, which is seeing strong interest among Ponoka’s youths, explained junior curling coordinator Sherri Smith. She shares the position with Andrew Jones at the Ponoka Curling Club.
“We’ve got new rookies and some bantam kids that are new,” explained Smith.
For parents or young curlers curious about the sport, Smith says it’s ideal as the costs are low — everything is provided except for clean running shoes and a helmet for the new curlers.
“Once they get their balance and everything in order we pretty much move them out from the helmet,” said Smith.
Another aspect of the sport she enjoys is the development that occurs. Kids get a strong understanding of curling and of the importance of teamwork. For many of the new curlers, this year will be about having fun and skill development.
“And working towards the big one-day bonspiel we have in February,” said Smith.
She enjoys seeing the growth and development that the kids see in the season. “And then they get that curling lingo going. It’s just exciting.”
For the high school side of things, the bonspiels see strong competition with a lot of excitement from curling fans and parents alike. Smith enjoys getting the kids that on-ice game experience.
New development
There are two Ponoka high school teams that are now part of a Friday night league. Smith said the league is sponsored by Lacombe and Ponoka’s teams compete in it.
“That involves teams from Ponoka, Bentley and Lacombe,” said Smith, adding that there are a few other communities involved.
The Ponoka Curling Club is hosting a coaching course put on by the Northern Alberta Curling Association (NACA).
All of the club’s coaches are going to be certified in the Club Coach program. The class is paid for through a grant and area coaches will also take in the class, which will be one of the first times all Ponoka coaches will have the same certification.
