Cook County Curling Club welcomes younger members this season

For many residents in Cook County, one way to stay busy in the long winter months is to join a club or community activity. 

And one of those fun winter activities is held at the community center each year: curling.

While the curling club struggled during the pandemic, it is back in full force this winter season and has welcomed many new and younger members. 

“I would say right now over half of our current membership, this is their first year that they signed up,” said Jim King, seasoned curler and curling club board member. 

The curling club currently has 90 members for the 2022/2023 season. Joanne Smith, vice president of the curling club, said the youngest member is 11 years old and is in fifth grade. 

“I think it’s really good for the club,” said King. 

Both King and Smith said the club is excited about welcoming the newcomers to the game, and the more seasoned members are helping give curling tips to the younger members.

Check out the Cook County Curling Club schedule here.

WTIP’s Kalli Hawkins caught up with Jim King and Joanne Smith during a Wednesday afternoon curling session at the curling session. Audio from the interview is below. 

Kalli Hawkins December 10, 2022