Nov. 17, 2009

THANK YOU Eau Claire Curling Club!

On Saturday, November 14th, Team USA was treated to a wonderful show of curling camaraderie, support, and fun at the Eau Claire Curling Club (ECCC). Mike Peplinski, Olympian (1998 Men’s Curling), organized a family fund raiser event at ECCC that included curling, raffle, interviews, autographs, photos, dinner and more.

To say that the day was a success seems to understate the feeling of the day. The true spirit of our sport was exemplified by this event. To have so many people come out to support the U.S. Olympic curling teams was great. Curlers traveled from as far as the state of Texas, and the Minnesota communities of Willmar, Winona, and Alexandria to pitch in with the ECCC membership, and other Wisconsin curlers to raise funds to help the Olympic families travel to Vancouver. Community businesses partnered with the curlers to host a fantastic event.

For the ECCC membership to give up a day of ice time for this event was a show of generous hospitality. Mike Peplinski, along with several event coordinators and a host of volunteers from the ECCC created a day that will long be remembered.

As we know, curlers are among the most supportive people you’ll ever meet. This was apparent in Eau Claire. The Club and community rallied around the event and the excitement was contagious. We heard time and again how excited people were to play an end against the Olympic Team. Team USA was humbled by this experience. To share the Eau Claire Curling Club ice with fellow curlers on a Saturday in November was truly memorable for all of us. THANK YOU for an awesome day of curling and the generous donation to our families!