History of Apollo Curling

Apollo Curling was founded in 1991 by Rob Hudson. In the early 1990s, members of the LGBTQ+ community faced significant challenges in finding safe and inclusive opportunities to participate in sports without fear of discrimination. A league dedicated to this community and its allies quickly gained popularity.

When the North Hill Curling Club burned down in the mid-1990s, Apollo Curling temporarily relocated to the Westwinds Curling Rink. Players recall watching the rocks bounce unpredictably over bumps in the ice, caused by persistent leaks in the roof. These experiences make us appreciate the excellent ice conditions we enjoy today.

In the 1990s and early 2000s, schedules, draws, and contact lists were all paper-based, as email was either unavailable or not as common as today. League communications were mailed to members with no return address to ensure discretion. At the year-end wind-up, physical prizes were awarded from a prize table instead of cash prizes.

Apollo quickly became a safe space for many, including newcomers to the city looking to meet people and be active in the community. This commitment to inclusivity and support remains central to our mission today.

By the late 1990s, the league had 24 teams, requiring two draw times on Saturdays. In addition to Rob, early league organization was led by Tony Yip, Chris Matthews, and Al Comadina, until 2000, when Phil Ivers and Chris Pollock took over.

League expansion continued in 2003, reaching 28 teams. By 2005, demand was so high that an additional draw time was secured at Inglewood Curling Club, allowing for further growth to 30 teams. The Inglewood ice was used for two seasons, complementing the two draw times at NHCC.

Following the 2008 financial crisis, some members relocated or shifted priorities, leading to a decline in participation. By 2012, the league had reached a low of 16 teams. Around this time, the rise of social media changed the way people connected, reducing reliance on organized sports and social groups.

However, by 2015, the league had rebounded to 28 teams, thanks in part to social media outreach and promotion. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Apollo Curling experienced significant growth, reaching 32 teams in 2022 and expanding further to 40 and eventually 42 teams, utilizing three draw times, where we stand for the 2024/25 season.

Since 2000, numerous individuals have contributed to organizing the league, including Michel Bourque, Randy Brookes, Donna Cruden, Shawn Galbraith, Mark Greaves, Geoff Holmlund, Jason Larence, Colin MacCracken, Ken Masse, Zoltan Nagy-Kovacs, Kerry Rasmussen, Calvin Seaman, Tom Sloan, and Brad Thompson.