As COVID surged and the subsequent shutdowns stretched on, the Milton Curling Club’s executive faced a tough decision: to close the club for the 2020-21 season. But while the ice sat untouched, the bills didn’t stop.
With an aging chiller in need of replacement, the club found itself at a financial crossroads. Fortunately, a strong history of teamwork and resilience among members proved invaluable in this challenging time.
“When we realized we couldn’t open due to the pandemic, yet still had operational costs, we asked members if they’d be willing to donate $150 to help keep the club afloat,” recalled President Bill Craig, a dedicated member for four decades. “A vast majority of members contributed, which allowed us to survive and weather the storm beautifully.”
That collective effort is characteristic of the Mill side Drive club, now celebrating its 60th anniversary. The spirit that brought the club to life back in the late 1950s—with 200 curlers each contributing $150 to fund construction—remains strong. The club, costing $112,000 to build, opened in 1964, bringing the sport indoors after decades of outdoor games at Mill Pond.
Today, membership has grown to about 400 across 17 leagues and various programs for juniors and beginners. Despite several upgrades, the club still retains much of its original structure and a strong volunteer spirit. “It was a founding principle that we all pitch in to make the club run smoothly, and that continues today,” Craig said, noting that recent preseason preparations saw members filling 404 volunteer duty slots. “Every adult member has contributed in some way.”
Vice President Michelle Somers echoed this, sharing how members rally together when extra help is needed. “If you need something here, all you have to do is ask,” she said. Longtime members carry the club’s traditions forward, especially in programs for juniors, where they pass down knowledge and enthusiasm.
The club’s 60th anniversary celebration will feature a drop-in gala on Saturday, Nov. 16, from 2 to 6 p.m., with three charter members and many longtime members expected to attend. The high-profile Milk Up Diamond Skins Bonspiel in mid-January will also mark the milestone.
Among the memories sure to be shared is the 2014 Olympic qualifying showdown between two of Milton’s standout curlers, Leigh Armstrong and Kirsten Wall, whose successes represent the club's enduring legacy of high-level competition.
“It was fantastic because we knew Milton would be represented at the Olympics either way,” said Craig. “We’ve seen a lot of provincial talent, but those two really shine in our club’s history.”
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