In 1946 a group of local businessmen joined together to establish the Welland Curling Club. Not waiting for the construction of their club to be finished, the Club’s first stones were thrown in the Welland Arena with the curlers drawing their own circles.
Late in the 1940’s construction of the Welland Curling club was completed at its current location on King Street. The original structure was a WWII plane hangar and drill hall which was purchased from the government and moved from Niagara on the Lake and reassembled in Welland. This old wooden structure housed the ice surface and a one story add on was constructed for a bar and change rooms facilities. Ice making equipment was provided by its next door neighbour, the Welland Arena.
In 1960 an expansion of the club included a second floor re-configuring the locker rooms, office and pro shop to the first floor and the food, beverage and lounge to the second floor. The Club also purchased its own ice making equipment.
By the late 1980’s the old wooden structure was well past its expiry date and needed to be replaced. Demolition started in May 1990. The contractor aided by club volunteers erected a new steel structure and the ice was ready by mid November.
The Welland Curling Club is the only eight sheet rink in the greater Niagara area and is perfect for hosting Bonspiels. In 2012 Welland hosted the Canadian University Championships and in 2019 the Ontario Provincial Stick Curling Championship but closest to our hearts is our annual Banana Belt Bonspiel. This signature event was founded in 1948 and the tradition continues.
The Club is a not-for-profit organization governed by its Board of Directors as appointed by the club members.
Curling is a sport that can be enjoyed by all ages and all abilities. Active club members have ranged in age from 6 to into the 90's. Canada has the largest population of curlers in the world and we at the Welland Curling Club would be pleased to introduce you to this wonderful winter sport.
