I started curling at a very young age. School wasn’t my thing – I didn’t enjoy academics or even going to class. But curling? That made me genuinely happy. After high school graduation, my dad offered me a lifeline: “If you’re not going to do anything with your life, come join me at the curling club.” That invitation changed everything. He showed me the ropes, and that connection to curling has brought me joy ever since.
What many don’t realize is that curling ice is a science and an art form. As both a player and an ice technician, I’ve gained a unique perspective on this sport that has become my life’s passion. The perfect sheet of ice can make dreams come true – whether for recreational players or Olympic hopefuls.
The Science Behind Perfect Curling Ice
Creating competition-worthy curling ice involves precision and understanding of multiple variables. Every curling club is different, every competition unique. The process requires several critical steps:
- Scraping – using a machine with a long, sharp blade to cut the ice completely flat
- Pebbling – splashing water droplets across all sheets to create a bumpy, grippy surface
- Nipping – using a smaller bladed machine to cut just the tops of the pebbles, creating semi-round surfaces
Those semi-round surfaces are crucial – they allow the rocks to grab onto the uncut portions, making the rocks curl. Understanding these elements as a player gives me an edge. I can identify imperfections and adjust my game accordingly.
The Invisible Challenge
The hardest part of being an ice technician isn’t the physical labor. It’s identifying and addressing the imperfections that most people never see. Temperature variations, humidity levels, and even the building’s environment affect ice quality. These subtle factors make the difference between good ice and great ice.
From recreational players to elite competitors, everyone wants quality ice. Creating a surface that allows players to perform their best is something we ice techs constantly strive for. It’s a responsibility I take seriously.
Seeing Both Sides of the Sport
My journey in curling has come full circle. I’ve been a competitive curler since I was seven years old, but now I also work behind the scenes. There’s something deeply satisfying about making other people’s curling dreams possible through my ice-making skills.
After each game, we reset the scoreboard because no one wants to see the results of someone else’s match. Similarly, we prepare fresh ice for each competition, giving every player an equal opportunity to succeed on a quality surface.
When my competitive career eventually ends, I hope to own my curling club or become a head ice technician. I want to build the dreams of younger curlers and provide excellent ice for players every day. Knowing I can take pride in that work would be incredibly fulfilling.
The transformation has been profound. I’m no longer just a player – I’m part of something bigger. I’ve found my place in the curling family, contributing both on and off the ice. This dual perspective has enriched my appreciation for the sport and connected me to a community that values both technical excellence and personal growth.
Through curling, I’ve discovered purpose, community, and a career path that aligns with my passion. What began as “that one thing that made me happy” has evolved into a multidimensional relationship with a sport that continues to shape my identity and future.
