I learned how East York earned its name as the friendliest club on my very first night of men’s curling.

I had curled a few times for fun with my wife and certainly knew about the etiquette of buying and reciprocating of drinks after a game.

I met my new team and was excited to win the game and buy the first round. I said ‘sure’ when offered a second drink. Imagine my surprise though when no one else got a drink and everyone got up to leave.

I was minding my business, feeling a little strange sitting there alone but finishing my beer when I heard ‘Hey aren’t you a new guy… get over here and join us.”

The voice was Norm Marianchuk. If you know Norm, you know that invite would sound more like an order! I joined the table and met long-time curlers like Ron Townley, Harry Bannister, Jim Harrison, ‘Muff’ and Dave Needham.

They kept buying rounds and wouldn’t let me reciprocate because I was new. It was quite an introduction and the beginning of many great friendships!

     Bing Mark
     Member since 1991

For many years the final Saturday night of the season was known as The How Trophy Night. This trophy was donated by Wilf How, an early member of the Club. Each year the winning Mens teams would play the winning teams from the Business Womens and Day Ladies Leagues in a battle of the sexes. Which ever side won the most games claimed the trophy for that season.

The players dressed up in costumes and a referee was required to maintain order on the ice. For several years, Bob Adair, a Toronto Police Officer, was the referee. One particular evening, Frank Boal was giving Bob a hard time. Finally during the last end Bob arrested Frank and handcuffed him to the railing behind sheets three and four.

The curlers finished their games and proceeded up to the lounge to get ready for the trophy presentations. There was Frank in the ice shed by himself, still chained to the railing much to the amusement of everyone in the lounge. Finally after about ten minutes Bob took pity on Frank and released him so he could join everyone upstairs.

     Gord Shepherd