With the 2026 Winter Olympics just one week away, Meadowbrook 5th graders got a firsthand taste of Olympic excitement during a recent visit to the Chicago Curling Club in Northbrook. The experience gave students an up-close look at the sport of curling and the dedication it takes to compete at the highest level.

During the visit, students learned the basics of curling, including how to deliver a stone, sweep the ice, and work as a team to guide each shot. Club members walked students through the rules and strategy of the game, helping them understand why curling is often called “chess on ice.”

A highlight of the day was meeting former Olympic curlers, who shared stories from their time competing on the world stage (pictured). Karri Willms of Canada won a bronze medal at the 1992 Olympics in France. Tyler George of Minnesota won a gold medal at the 2018 Olympics in South Korea. Joni Cotten is an Olympic curler from   Mount Prospect who competed in the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City. 

Students had the opportunity to ask them questions, hear what it takes to train for the Olympics, and even see Willms' and George's Olympic medals up close—an inspiring moment for many aspiring athletes.

The district is grateful to the Chicago Curling Club for welcoming students and providing a memorable, educational experience that brought the Olympic spirit to life.