Volunteers needed for the Grand Slam of Curling, Junior Slam in November

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Vauxhall Advance

By Anna Smith
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Grand Slam of Curling Masters and the U21 Junior Slam are sliding into Medicine Hat next month, and organizers are on the hunt for volunteers to help the event go smoothly.

Co-op Place will host the Grand Slam from Nov. 3-8, while the Curling Centre will host the Junior Slam Nov. 5-8. Both events expect to see some big names in attendance, says chair Dave Kowalchuk, both as players and the family members of these well-known names in the Junior Slam.

“We’re looking forward to 64 teams in town that whole week, lots of curling fans from across Canada and even into the States,” said Kowalchuk. “The Junior Slam does have some international taste as well. There’s two Japanese teams coming, and a couple of American teams. It’s going to be a great weekend.”

Both events are looking for volunteers for tasks such as selling 50/50 tickets, sitting at an information booth, helping people find their seats or doing security, as well as people with curling knowledge for technical tasks such as doing timings or taking statistics, says organizer Kym Porter.

Volunteers are also sought for tasks such as pebbling the ice, which is a vital aspect of the event.

Porter hopes to see people out to both help and to spectate, noting the finals for the Junior Slam will be held at Co-op Place alongside the Grand Slam finals, allowing the younger players who manage to go the distance a chance to be exposed to Sportsnet, which is covering the week.

“With the 50-50 for this event, all proceeds go into Medicine Hat Curling Centre, so we’re pretty excited about that,” said Kowalchuk.

People will be able to purchase by both cash and by card via a tap machine.

“In addition, any sponsorship money brought in, the club is also getting 50 per cent of the sponsorship money, so we are still taking sponsors at this time. If any businesses in town want to support this event, by all means, they can contact me.”

Those looking to potentially sponsor are encouraged to reach out via email at davkow@outlook.com, whereas those looking to volunteer are encouraged to contact the curling rink manager Bryden Smith at manager@medhatcurling.ca or by calling 403-526-3821.