Floor curling initiative builds lasting connections across generations in Newfoundland & Labrador

What began as a plan to introduce students in Newfoundland & Labrador to the sport of curling grew into something bigger, laying the foundation for a community-wide movement that bridged generations and created lasting connections.

Over the past year, Curling Canada and Egg Farmers Rocks & Rings teamed up with members of the province’s curling community to bring curling—and wheelchair curling—into local schools.

Leading the charge were Katie Peddigrew, a four-time national championship competitor; Cailey Locke, a six-time provincial champion and 2024 Youth Olympic Games participant; and Leslie Anne Walsh, a longtime coach and advocate for youth and wheelchair curling in the province.

The trio hit the road with floor curling equipment in tow, visiting seven schools in a one-month span and introducing the sport to 1,160 students through Egg Farmers Rocks & Rings sessions. 

With curling’s low barrier to entry, instructors found that students were not only eager to participate but also deeply engaged, asking questions, learning strategies, and embracing the teamwork that curling fosters. Even students who typically shy away from physical education classes took to the sport, enjoying the opportunity to test their skills in a fun, inclusive environment.

The sessions were designed with accessibility in mind. Students had the chance to try wheelchair curling, using pusher sticks and throwing from a seated position. For students who use wheelchairs, it offered a meaningful opportunity for full participation.

“We had a couple of students who were in wheelchairs, and their faces lit up when we said they could participate,” said Peddigrew. “They had the biggest smiles on their faces the whole time.”

Locke said she was inspired by the enthusiasm students brought to each session.

“The kids were so engaged and wanted to learn more about curling,” she said. “They asked lots of questions, were eager to try different shots and loved strategizing during the games. They especially enjoyed learning about the inclusivity of curling and had fun trying wheelchair curling.”

Walsh, who has coached in the wheelchair curling community for years, sees this kind of representation and opportunity as essential to building a stronger, more connected curling culture.

“Introducing floor curling to wheelchair users in schools was a powerful way to promote inclusivity and lifelong engagement in sports,” said Walsh. “It goes beyond just physical activity—it’s about creating opportunities for connection, confidence and a sense of belonging.

“For many wheelchair users, discovering a sport tailored to their abilities can spark joy and motivation. Floor curling, with its focus on strategy and teamwork, is not only accessible but also deeply rewarding. It empowers individuals to see their potential and pursue a healthy, active lifestyle, both now and in the future.”

After the school sessions wrapped, the momentum didn’t stop.

Walsh partnered with Team Zachary French, a local U-18 team, to expand the reach of the initiative. The team had been seeking a way to give back to their sponsors, including Tiffany Village and Kenny’s Pond retirement residences, and collaborated with Walsh to launch weekly floor curling sessions for seniors.

Team French and Walsh led the initial activities, and now the recreation departments run the floor curling sessions. The response from residents has been heartwarming, especially for those with fond memories of the sport.

“When we went there, I think there were two or three ladies who used to curl out of our club years ago, now in their late 80s or early 90s,” said Walsh. “A few of them remembered me, and when they got to floor curl, their faces just lit up.”

These sessions offer more than just fun. They help seniors practise mobility and flexibility, enjoy social engagement and reconnect with a sport many already love, whether from a standing or seated position and throwing with or without a pusher stick.

Walsh sees this as only the beginning. This summer, she hopes to expand the program with floor curling bonspiels for retirement homes across St. John’s and bring the activity into local rehabilitation centres.

These efforts highlight the true scope of floor curling—its ability to inspire youth to dream of future medals, support seniors in staying active and engaged, and bring people together through inclusive, meaningful play.

“This initiative can truly be life-changing, as it opens doors to competitive sports, social integration and personal growth,” said Walsh. “A simple introduction to a sport like floor curling can plant the seed for a lifetime of participation and achievement.”