As we transition to a registered non-profit society, we need to define who we are and where we're going. These are starting points — the board and membership will shape the final versions.
As a registered non-profit society, we'll need foundational documents that explain why we exist and what we're trying to accomplish. Vision and mission statements serve that purpose.
More practically, they help the board make decisions. When a question comes up — should we expand? Should we add a second venue? Should we prioritize competitive play or social atmosphere? — the answer should flow from who we say we are.
Describes what we aspire to become. It's forward-looking and aspirational. It answers: "What does success look like in the long run?"
Describes what we do right now, for whom, and why. It's grounded and practical. It answers: "Why do we exist and what do we provide?"
The 2025–26 survey confirmed: the primary objective is a safe, social environment for 2SLGBTQI+ community members and allies. 21% say the focus is the game of curling. Both are welcome — but when tradeoffs arise, community comes first.
Apollo is a 2SLGBTQI+ league and allies. The league exists because of a specific need — but the doors are open to anyone who shares our values.
In 1991, league communications were mailed with no return address to protect members' privacy. The need for safe, inclusive sporting spaces hasn't disappeared — 27% of 2SLGBTQI+ people still don't feel welcome in community sport groups (Stonewall UK, 2024).
The league rebounded from 16 teams in 2012 to 48 today. That only happened because new people kept showing up — and we kept making room.
A vision statement is aspirational — it describes the future we're working toward. Here are three directions to consider. These are starting points, not final choices.
"A Calgary where every 2SLGBTQI+ person and ally has a welcoming place to play, compete, and belong."
"To be Canada's leading 2SLGBTQI+ curling community — a model for inclusive sport that grows with the people it serves."
"Building on over 30 years of community, Apollo Curling will continue to be a safe, inclusive home for 2SLGBTQI+ curlers and allies for generations to come."
A mission statement is grounded — it describes what we do today, who we serve, and why it matters. Keep it short enough to remember and repeat.
"Apollo Curling provides a safe, social, and inclusive curling experience for Calgary's 2SLGBTQI+ community and allies."
"Apollo Curling brings together Calgary's 2SLGBTQI+ community and allies through the sport of curling. We provide a welcoming environment where members can build friendships, develop their skills, and participate in competitive and social curling — regardless of experience level."
"Apollo Curling exists to foster community, belonging, and well-being through the sport of curling. We are a social league first — creating a space where 2SLGBTQI+ individuals and allies can connect, compete, and celebrate together in an environment free from discrimination."
"We organize inclusive curling leagues and tournaments that connect Calgary's 2SLGBTQI+ community and allies through sport, social events, and volunteerism."
If it doesn't fit on a business card, it's too long. Members should be able to paraphrase it without looking it up.
It shouldn't be interchangeable with any other sports league. If you can swap in "softball" and it still works, it's too generic.
79% of members say we're social first. The statement should reflect that — not hedge between social and competitive as if they're equal.
A good mission statement helps settle debates. "Should we expand to 56 teams if it means less ice per player?" The mission should point toward an answer.
It should be true next year, and in five years. Don't include details that change — no team counts, no venue names, no specific programs.
The league was founded to serve the 2SLGBTQI+ community, but has always welcomed allies. The statement should reflect that openness.
The board and membership will ultimately decide on the final vision and mission statements. These options are here to get the conversation started — not to limit it.
You're welcome to mix and match elements from different options, rewrite them entirely, or propose something completely new.
Share your thoughts at the season wind-up or by emailing organizers@apollocurling.com. If you have wording you'd prefer, send it along — the best statements often come from the membership, not a committee.
Apollo Curling League · 2026–27 Season Planning · apollocurling.com