General Manager Katherina Khoury
The Smiths Falls Curling and Squash Club is proving that a sports facility can become much more than a place to compete.
With a history stretching back to the late 1800s, the non-profit club has become a gathering place for residents of all ages. More than 200 members now take part in curling, squash and pickleball, while the building also hosts social activities, fundraisers and community events.
General Manager Katherina Khoury says the club works hard to ensure everyone feels welcome.
Most of the work behind the scenes is completed by volunteers. Khoury and the club’s winter ice technician are its only paid employees, while directors, members and community supporters help operate programs and organize events.
Money earned through memberships and activities is reinvested in the facility. The club also depends on grants to improve its programming and make the building more accessible.
Its membership ranges from children younger than nine to people who continue curling into their 90s. Modified options, including stick curling, allow people with mobility challenges to keep playing.
The social connections continue after the games end. Curlers commonly gather around tables with snacks, while volunteers also create activities that have little to do with the final score.
One of the club’s biggest volunteer-led events is a murder mystery written and performed by its members.
The club is also finding new ways to use its space throughout the year. Four pickleball courts have been added during the curling off-season, attracting drop-in players and new members.
A pickleball challenge featuring women’s, men’s and mixed play is planned for Aug. 29. The club is also considering adding badminton programming in the future.
Khoury says attending an event directly supports future activities and improvements.
More information about memberships, activities and upcoming events is available at curlingsquash.ca.
