Curling Craze Fuels Fundraising for Dedicated Facility in Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon, is experiencing a surge in curling enthusiasm, spurred by recent Olympic competitions and a growing local community. The Bend Curling Club is capitalizing on this momentum with a fundraising campaign to build a dedicated curling facility, aiming to move beyond limited ice time at the city’s public rink.

Olympic Spotlight Drives Interest and Donations

The U.S. Women’s curling team’s performance in the Winter Olympics has significantly boosted the sport’s profile in Bend. On February 13, 2026, the team made Olympic history by defeating Canada [OPB]. Local curlers gathered at Bevel Brewing to watch a rebroadcast of the U.S. Women’s team competing against Switzerland, demonstrating the growing fan base.

Bend Curling Club’s Expansion Plans

The Bend Curling Club, founded in 2016, currently operates on limited ice time at The Pavilion, a public ice rink. Demand for ice time is high, with a waitlist for curlers of all ages. Club leaders envision a dedicated facility with multiple lanes and a social area. The project is estimated to cost between $1.2 million and $1.5 million, encompassing the lease and renovation of an existing building [Central Oregon Daily].

Significant Donations Propel Fundraising Efforts

The club has already secured substantial donations, totaling $713,000 as of February 28, 2026. A recent $500,000 pledge from Carol Giles and Ron Sproat of Prineville significantly boosted the campaign [KLCC]. Giles highlighted the sport’s accessibility for older adults, noting her and her husband’s continued competitive play despite their ages.

A Civil and Inclusive Sport

Michael Coe, president of the Bend Curling Club’s Board of Directors, emphasized the sport’s unique character. He described curling as a “civil sport” where players call their own fouls [Central Oregon Daily]. Coe, a therapist, is known for his enthusiastic coaching style on the ice [KLCC] and [OPB]. Longtime club members, like Mike and Mickey Freundelich, contribute to the club’s inclusive atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

With the fundraising campaign gaining momentum, the Bend Curling Club is optimistic about establishing a permanent facility. This would not only accommodate the growing local demand but too position Bend as a curling destination in Oregon, currently served only by a facility in Beaverton [OPB]. The club hopes to ensure the sport’s longevity in Central Oregon for generations to come.