Ice, Ice, Maybe: OC Curling Club Seeks a Place to Call Home
The Orange County Curling Club is poised to capitalize on growing interest in curling. All the club needs now is a dedicated facility for practices, skill clinics, and games. Photo credit Immo Wegmann
The earliest evidence of curling, the Scottish medieval sport where two teams slide granite stones down a sheet of ice towards a target, dates back to the 1500s. Life in Southern California might be vastly different from that of 16th-century Scotland, but the sport of curling continues to inspire the same passion among its players and fans.
The Orange County Curling Club, a grassroots organization that has steadily grown over the past 15 years, is on a mission to find a dedicated curling facility to call its own. The club’s members, united by a shared love for the sport, hope to secure a permanent home to expand access to curling and foster community engagement. They’re ready to capitalize on the sport’s growing popularity in case curling turns into the next pickleball.
Mike Cassidy, a longtime club member, recalls how he and his wife discovered curling by chance.
“We’re originally from Canada but never curled growing up, which is a bit uncommon,” said Cassidy. “About 12 years ago, we joined a one-night ‘Learn to Curl’ event through the club. We loved it and became regulars.”
Since joining, Cassidy has served on the OC Curling Board for six years. As a board member, he is dedicated to finding solutions to the club's challenge of securing consistent ice time.
“We’ve been tenants at multiple rinks over the years, including Westminster Ice and Great Park Ice in Irvine,” Cassidy explained. “Currently, we lease six hours of ice weekly at Lakewood Ice. While the facility has been supportive, it’s not the same as having a space to call our own.”
A dedicated curling facility would allow the club to operate independently, offering opportunities for youth programs, adaptive curling for people with disabilities, corporate events, and competitive leagues.
“We’ve raised nearly half a million dollars so far, and we’re actively searching for a space that can accommodate four curling sheets,” Cassidy said. “Our dream is to open by the next Winter Olympics in February 2026.”
Although the 2026 Winter Olympics will take place in Milan, Italy, Cassidy noted that each time curling is showcased, the club experiences a surge in interest. They aim to be ready when the Olympics sparks excitement about the sport in Orange County.
Irvine: A Sports-Friendly Candidate
The city of Irvine has been a key part of the club’s journey. As a long-time member of OC Curling, an Irvine resident, and winner of the US Senior National Championships’ C bracket, Bill Waddington has emphasized Irvine’s potential as a host city.
“Irvine is incredibly sports-minded,” he said, pointing to the city’s investments in facilities like the Great Park and the Ducks’ ice rinks. “Curling would be a natural fit here, adding to the sports culture.”
Waddington, who was introduced to curling through his sons, believes the sport’s accessibility and community focus could attract Irvine residents.
“Curling is like chess on ice,” he explained. “It’s a physical and mental challenge. Plus, it’s a sport where you can compete and have fun well into your senior years.”
Despite its appeal, finding the right space in Irvine has proven difficult.
“We’ve spoken with city leaders and explored options, but warehouse space in Irvine is scarce and expensive,” Cassidy admitted. “Still, we’re hopeful and determined.”
Community and Camaraderie
What sets curling apart, according to both Cassidy and Waddington, is its emphasis on sportsmanship and community. Matches begin and end with handshakes, and socializing off the ice is a cherished tradition.
“It’s not just a sport — it’s a family,” Waddington said. “I’ve met people from all over the world through curling. It’s a way of life.”
The club currently has around 130 members, ranging in age from 19 to 82.
“With a dedicated facility, we’re confident we can grow even more,” Cassidy said. “Curling is accessible to everyone, including those with mobility challenges, thanks to adaptive options like stick and wheelchair curling.”
Waddington echoed the sentiment, urging Irvine residents to give curling a try.
“If you’re a sports-minded person looking for a new challenge, curling might just be the perfect fit,” he said. “It’s a sport that welcomes everyone and teaches values like fair play and camaraderie.”
As the Orange County Curling Club continues its search, its members are rallying support from the community.
“We’re at a pivotal moment,” Cassidy said. “Finding the right location is our biggest challenge, but we’re optimistic. Our future landlord might be someone who hears our story and wants to help.”
Learn more about OC Curling Club here.