The junior program at GCC is for kids between the ages of 7 and 21. Our primary objective is to have fun and develop a life long passion for curling. As curling is a game of etiquette, we encourage and promote good sportsmanship both on and off the ice.
Learn to Curl
This program is for those aged 7-18 who are just learning how to curl. Kids are divided into groups according to their age and skill level. In addition to regular curling rocks, we have “little rocks” which are specially designed, lighter versions of regular curling stones that make it easier for kids to slide their rocks down the sheet.
Each session focuses on skill development, strategy and etiquette along with an actual game. After the game, teams engage in one of the most important aspects of the sport - socializing with food and drinks (in this case, hot chocolate with marshmallows!).
Basic equipment (brooms, grippers and sliders) is provided. Participants need only to bring a helmet and wear clean, flat soled shoes.
2012 - 2013 Dates:
Session 1: Sunday October 7,14 and 21 9:30-11:30am Cost: $30
Session 2: Sunday February 10 and 24 9:30 – 11:30am Cost: $20
Session 3: Sunday March 24, 31 & April 7 9:30 – 11:30am Cost $30
To register, please email Lisa Rauliuk at therauliuks@gmail.com.
Friday Juniors League
The Friday Juniors League is for junior members under 21 who are ready to play a game using the bigger stones and the full sheet, and can accommodate teams that are preparing for and participating in national competition. This league meets Fridays from 4:30pm to 6:15pm. Games are usually six ends in length and instructors are available for advice during play. Following the game, there is some off-ice time to enjoy snacks and socializing with the other teams.
Junior Merit Program
This series of structured instruction and testing is geared to ongoing skill improvement and development. It’s a structured program that utilizes the U.S. and Canadian models and features quality instruction designed to allow juniors to advance at their own pace. Participants earn badges and move through a series of levels in the program. Eligibility is determined based on skill and optional testing opportunities are offered throughout the year. Merit classes are held on select Saturdays from 9am-12noon, and are free of charge for GCC Junior Members. Please check the Juniors-only calendar for dates.
Curling Camps and Clinics
For our more competitive juniors and individuals or teams that want to improve their game, we offer both curling camps and various clinics throughout the year. The kick-off to the curling season is the West Coast Curling Camp held in September, which draws juniors from all over the
Northwest and features nationally-certified instructors and coaches.
Bonspiels for 2012-2013
The junior program also sponsors three Bonspiels (competitions):
• The Langley Exchange Bonspiel held February 16-17th has our junior curlers playing against our friends from Langley, B.C. It's a friendly event with a long-standing tradition and is open to GCC Juniors of all levels. Each year the location alternates between the two clubs, and will be hosted at GCC this year.
• The GCC Junior Bonspiel is open to Juniors of all levels and takes place March 15-17th.
• The Family Bonspiel is designed to encourage parents and kids to curl together. This fun spiel is held on March 30th.
More Information
For all the latest event information, please check the Juniors calendar. https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=ebaou90kimtj8nanaqf2jkuan4%40g...
For more information about junior curling, please email:
Tom Violette, Juniors Coordinator & Friday Juniors League Manager, juniors@curlingseattle.org
Lisa Rauliuk, Junior Learn to Curl Coordinator, therauliuks@gmail.com.