The Wauwatosa Curling Club in Wisconsin is set to host its inaugural Adaptive Open Bonspiel on January 23 and 24. This two-day event welcomes participants with any disability and skill level to engage in adaptive curling. The free tournament aims to promote inclusivity in the sport.
The Adaptive Open Bonspiel marks a significant step for the Wauwatosa Curling Club, located in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Scheduled for January 23 and 24, the event introduces adaptive curling, a modified version of the sport that enables players to deliver stones using a pusher stick. Participants can play from a standing position or seated in a wheelchair, making it accessible to a wide range of abilities.
Organized to celebrate and broaden participation, the bonspiel is free for adaptive curlers, fostering community involvement. The club's Adaptive Curling program provides tailored instruction to ensure safe and confident play for everyone, regardless of physical ability or age.
Emily Kraus, the club's Adaptive Curling coordinator, emphasized the event's purpose: “Adaptive curling allows anyone, regardless of physical ability or age, to enjoy the excitement and strategy of curling. We’re thrilled to create a welcoming space for new and experienced curlers to come together, compete, and share in the spirit of the game.”
While registration for participants has closed, spectators are encouraged to attend, observe the matches, and learn about adaptive curling opportunities. For further details, interested individuals can visit the club's website at www.wauwatosacurlingclub.com or email adaptive@wauwatosacurlingclub.com.
This initiative highlights growing efforts to make curling inclusive, aligning with broader trends in adaptive sports ahead of events like the Winter Olympics.