The Roaring Game Makes a Comeback in Andrew

The Roaring Game Makes a Comeback in Andrew

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

The roaring game made a comeback in the community of Andrew on January 20 when members of the Andrew Curling Club took to the ice to enjoy the inaugural game of the 2022 season.

The return of the sport of curling was welcomed by members who have been sidelined because of COVID-19 restrictions for the past two years.

“Due to Covid we have not been operational since the 2019- 2020 season,” said Treasurer Brianne Kozakewich.

She went on to say, “Current COVID-19 guidelines have affected our numbers and it’s possible that the downtime has potentially decreased community interest in the sport. However, it seems we have persevered as this season we have eight teams for our league. We had decided we would operate with a minimum of six teams, so having eight is great for us!

Pictured from L-R: Bar Manager Brice Andrychuk, Vice President Brylan Kolotylo, President Chris Shandro and Treasurer Brianne Kozakewich. Missing from the photo is Secretary Kaitlin Kolotylo.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

The Andrew Curling Club originally ran from 1951 to 2012. It was restarted again in 2017 due to renewed community interest. A few of our members were curling in leagues in the surrounding area and we kept thinking that we could get the Andrew club running again. Many of us watched our parents play in the Andrew rink and even played there ourselves as kids. There are many fond memories attached to our rink.”

Chris Shandro, has been the President of the Andrew Curling Club since its revival a several years ago. He credits the continuation of the club to the volunteers, members and sponsors who have supported the club throughout the years.

Chris Shandro keeps an eye on his shot.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

“The members of our club have been dedicated to the community and the curling rink for many years. We want to continue to grow community spirit and sportsmanship within our small community. Curling is much more than just a sport, there have been friendships forged and a strong sense of community found within our little club.”

Mavin Kolotylo has been curling for many years and said she is very proud of the next generation who have stepped up and taken over operations of the club. She loves the camaraderie and being back out on the ice. “We’re not here to win. We’re here to have fun,” said Kolotylo jokingly.

Alexandra Mutton is a newcomer to the sport. “I only curled once before in 2019 during a team building event in Edmonton.” Her advice to anyone who hasn’t tried the sport of curling is, “Just go for it. It’s a lot of fun.”