Learn to Curl - Oromocto, NB

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Learn to Curl, 19 & (20-21) December is now open. The application deadline is 2 December 2024.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 
Soldier On wants to offer you 1-3 days of fun and learning at the Gage Curling Club, where participants will be introduced to the exciting sport of curling. This event will cover the fundamentals of curling, from learning essential techniques to understanding game strategies. Participants will also explore Stick Curling, an adapted version of the game designed to accommodate different abilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sport. As a highlight, participants will have the option to take part in a fundraising bonspiel, supporting the Soldier On program. Whether you're new to curling or looking to build your skills, this event offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.
The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 12.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the Oromocto area who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

*NOTE FOR SERVING MEMBERS: Amidst current financial limitations and a federal directive to reduce defense spending within DND by a Billion dollars, serving members' participation in Soldier On events and activities will now be limited to within their own local    region (i.e., selection for event outside of where they reside is unlikely). As a result, serving members are advised that participation beyond their local area is likely to be denied, as Soldier On cannot sponsor any temporary duty status for serving members in order to align with government guidelines for expenditure reduction. Unfortunately, serving members are not authorized to participate in Soldier On activities and events while on leave.*

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

19 December
1000hrs-1200hrs Skills and Drills
1200hrs-1300hrs Lunch (Provided by Kings Club Restaurant)
1300hrs-1500hrs Mini Games

20-21 December-Optional
Fundraising Bonspiel
0830hrs Registration and Schedule
0900hrs Bonspiel Begins

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that meals and transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location, travel and meals are not eligible for reimbursement for this event.

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Participants must be able to tolerate 4 to 6 hours of moderate paced activities for 1 to 3 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day.   Participants will be required to lift or push heavy curling rocks as well as throw\slide and move up and down the ice surface. Participants should possess basic mobility and balance, and the ability to follow instructions while on the ice. Push sticks are available to assist those who have difficulty bending.   

Applicants will be joined by other ill injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. Applicants are advised that the activity and meals for this event are located at Canadian armed forces facilities, and thus they may be exposed to day-to-day military environment. Applicants also and knowledge that there will be no alcohol during the day of instruction of the learn to curl.
   
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE PREVENTION:
Soldier On, PSP and CAF TG aim to provide a safe environment for all participants and staff. To ensure everyone’s safety, applicants understand that they should aim to adopt personal practices focused on communicable disease prevention such as health awareness, staying home when sick and regular hand cleaning to help prevent the spread.