Young curlers shine as Paris Curling Club’s youth program continues to grow

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The future of curling in Paris is in good hands.

The Paris Curling Club’s youngest members wrapped up another successful season this winter, as participation in the club’s Pebbles, Little Rocks and Juniors programs continues to grow and introduce more local youth to the sport.

This season, 33 young curlers took part in the club’s Sunday youth programming, including 10 Pebbles, 12 Little Rocks and 11 Juniors, a strong showing that organizers say reflects a renewed interest in curling among younger athletes in the community.

The season concluded with the presentation of several awards recognizing young curlers who demonstrated strong sportsmanship, dedication and skill throughout the year.

Ruby Morris was presented with the Ruth Cooke Award, which recognizes a female junior player who demonstrates dedication to curling and sportsmanship.

Noah Trenwith received the Stan Tose Award, honouring a male junior player who embodies the values of sportsmanship and skill that Tose represented during his time in the sport.

Meanwhile, Maggie Trenwith was awarded the Donna Todd Award, presented to a junior curler who exemplifies the full spirit of sportsmanship both on and off the ice.

Beyond weekly programming, several junior players also had the opportunity to test their skills in competition this season.

A group of Paris curlers travelled to the Acton Curling Club to compete in their first bonspiel, participating in a U13 points bonspiel earlier in the season. The experience gave many of the young athletes their first chance to compete against teams from other clubs.

Later in the season, a Paris team also entered a U18 points bonspiel during the first weekend of March. After two games of curling — including an impressive 12–1 victory — the team finished third overall in the event.

Club organizers say the success of the youth program would not be possible without the support of volunteers who dedicate their time to mentoring the next generation of curlers.

“The Paris Curling Club is super grateful for the commitment of all of our volunteers to help teach and support our youngest curlers,” said executive member Ashley McCarthy. “They had a great season this year and we are looking forward to welcoming them all back again next year!”

With growing participation and young players already gaining competitive experience, the club hopes the momentum will continue as it works to build the next generation of curlers in the Paris community.