Coming in hot Fire on Ice, one of two Prince George curling teams competing in the 2023 Special Olympics BC Winter Games Feb. 2 to 4 in Kamloops, has won their first game, setting themselves up for success not matter what comes next.
Team members are Ruth Caldwell, skip; Tyler LeFebvre, lead; Greg Eveneshen, second; and Darcie Muzychka, third. Their dedicated coaching duo includes head coach Fern Russell and assistant coach Kassandra Lewis.
During their last practice before heading to the games the team was a little nervous, Russell explained, as they are competitive athletes looking to do their very best during an important provincial competition.
“With Tyler in a wheelchair it’s a new experience,” Muzychka said about her new teammate. “It’s been a bit of a challenge but we’re learning.”
This is the team’s first year together because one of their former teammates picked a different sport to compete in during the SO BC Winter Games so they are learning how to play together, Russell added. Each SO athlete is only able to compete in one sport and since most participate in a variety of sports throughout the season it’s nice to have the option to pick and choose.
“When a former teammate left we picked up Tyler from another team and he’s been a great addition and they are all really enjoying their skills as team players,” Russell added. “And yes, this is something that adds to the game, you’re not just thinking about yourself, you’re thinking about taking care of your teammates, too and they all take very good care of each other out on the ice, which is awesome. From the beginning of our season to now, we’ve seen huge changes and it’s been great.”
Eveneshen said he’s looking forward to the games in Kamloops.
“It’s going to be a new thing for us four to be curling together,” he said with a smile.
Caldwell has been curling for 12 years and is the skip. It will be under her guidance the team will play cohesively during the games.
There are 18 Prince George athletes competing in the Special Olympics (SO) BC Winter Games in curling, five-pin bowling and snowshoeing along with four head coaches, three assistant coaches and two mission staff members who will support the athletes at the games.
For more information visit Special Olympics BC.
