The St. Adolphe Rockettes have been curling together for an amazing 50 years, but curling is really only a small part of what ties this group of women together.

Cheryl Kennedy-Courcelles, president of the Rockettes, has been a member for 25 years. She stresses how close-knit the group is. These women are there for each other through thick and thin.

The Rockettes Club was begun by two women who have since passed away: Margaret Stott of Niverville and Irene De Cruyenaere of St. Adolphe.

When the group began curling together, the world was quite a different place. The majority of the women didn’t work outside the home. The Rockettes offered childcare so moms could get out of the house and curl with their friends.

Times have changed and the Rockettes no longer offer childcare, but they do still meet during the day. Kennedy-Courcelles says that the women in the group make attending their Tuesday morning get-togethers a priority.

“Most [of the] ladies, actually, make their work schedules around having Tuesday mornings off,” says Kennedy-Courcelles. “It’s amazing how they’re very dedicated to keeping that time open.”

The fundamental goal of the Rockettes, according to Kennedy-Courcelles, is camaraderie. She describes how members have helped each other over the years as many of them had children, then grandchildren, then great-grandchildren.

And at times the women support members who have lost loved ones as well.

“There’s many members that, you know, spouses, unfortunately, have passed on, and we are absolutely there for each other… from attending the funeral to making meals, to helping out and just being that steady person.”

The Rockettes don’t just support each other. They also support their community. Over the years, they’ve put together many fundraisers and special events.

They’re also supporters of the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC). Many members make quilts and other products to be sold on behalf of MCC.

Kennedy-Courcelles says that by now some of the Rockettes have retired from their careers and moved to Winnipeg. Some have joined clubs in the city, or other places, but they still make time for the Rockettes.

“It’s quite clear that the Rockettes are their favourite organization,” says Kennedy-Courcelles. “It really is, because we have such caring hearts towards each other and towards our communities… We’re very respectful of everybody.”

The women don’t just gather in the winter. They golf together in the summer and gather for other special occasions.

Kennedy-Courcelles stresses that nearly anyone can curl, regardless of age. Last year they had a new recruit who was 74 and had never curled before.

Physical disabilities can often be compensated for in the sport as well. A curling “crutch” can aid players in delivering the rock, providing more security and stability as they slide. There are also long-handled devices that allow a player to push the rock without having to bend down.

Kennedy-Courcelles points out that the artificial ice is also a boon for many, as one doesn’t have to push the rock so hard. The artificial ice is particularly smooth.

“We are always open to having brand-new ladies come curl with us, and we will take the time to teach you. And we’re not too competitive,” she says. “We’re all about having fun and getting some laughs in, and certainly getting some exercise. But, you know, we’re not looking to go to the Scotties!”

The St. Adolphe Rockettes curl every Tuesday morning from 9:30 to 11:30 and welcome women of any age to join them.