When I think back on the past decade, I find myself reflecting on one of the most significant moments of my life: the gold medal victory in curling that took place in Lansing, Michigan in June 2014. It was a journey that began at the Broadmoor Curling Club in Colorado Springs and evolved into a story of healing and redemption, not just in the sport but in my personal life as well.
My mother, a Polish-Canadian Catholic, was an excellent rock tosser from eastern Saskatchewan, though she lacked a competitive edge. Thankfully, that competitive drive came from my father. The words of Pope John Paul II, who once said that we are best when we pursue our passions and find healing in them, resonate deeply with me. This wisdom proved true as I found solace and a sense of purpose through curling, especially during challenging times.
The USA Arena National Championship, introduced in 2013, is a distinctive curling competition designed to celebrate clubs that use multipurpose arena ice rather than dedicated curling rinks. Almost half of the curling clubs in the United States use this type of ice, which can lead to unpredictable reactions in the game. Despite these challenges, players from across the northern states and even beyond, who now live in cities without dedicated curling facilities, have shown remarkable dedication and enthusiasm for the sport.
Arena curlers are often instrumental in transforming their clubs into full-time curling facilities, contributing to the growth of the sport in cities like Denver, San Francisco, and even Las Vegas. Many of these players have previously competed at high levels, adding depth and experience to the arena curling scene. My journey with Team Colorado, starting with a bronze medal in 2013 and culminating in our gold medal win in 2014, was a testament to this dedication and the friendships formed along the way.
The championship in Lansing was a thrilling experience, marked by a series of intense games. We faced tough competition from teams across sixteen states, and our victory was particularly sweet after a challenging match against the defending champions from Michigan. The camaraderie and skill of my teammates—Nate Mascarenas, Gord Harrison, and Kevin Lyons—were crucial to our success. The emotional and psychological impact of this victory, coming after a period of personal turmoil, was profound.
Reflecting on this milestone, I see it as more than just a sporting achievement. It was a significant step in my personal healing journey following a difficult divorce and other life challenges. The curling rink, and the community within it, provided a sanctuary where I could reconnect with my passions and find a sense of redemption. The experience of winning the gold medal, particularly on a day that had previously held painful memories, was a powerful moment of renewal.
As I celebrate the 10th anniversary of this victory, I continue to cherish the friendships and memories from that time. This journey has taught me the value of passion, perseverance, and the support of a like-minded community. Every June, I raise a glass in honor of my teammates and the profound impact this experience has had on my life. It serves as a reminder that healing and redemption can be found in the most unexpected places, often through the things we love most.