Bismarck, North Dakota – Thursday was the official inauguration of curling as North Dakota’s state sport.
“Today is extra special because we talk a lot about the youth of our state are our future. I like to say they are future leaders, well today they are our current leaders,” said Governor Doug Burgum.
The idea was first proposed by sixth-grader Alaina Schmit of Horizon Middle School.
“When I found out North Dakota didn’t have a state sport, I made it my goal to make one. And it’s really exciting to see it all come together,” said Schmit.
Alaina was unaware of the potential difficulties in getting the law on Governor Doug Burgum’s desk. Fortunately, Senator Sean Cleary paid attention to the young woman’s desire.
“I’d like to thank Senator Cleary for a simple but powerful act, listening to a constituent about something they are passionate about. Helping them through the process,” said Ben Sand, the Capital Curling Club president.
Senator Cleary, meanwhile, has a unique relationship to the game.
“I came to this club curling with my dad, so it’s great to be back. That’s also why I relate to this bill. It’s a great sport. Families can play for their whole life,” said Sen. Cleary.
Many believe that curling should be named the state sport of North Dakota, and this enthusiasm and love for the game was evident at the VFW Sports Center.
“That spirit of curling manifests itself on the ice. We shake happens with our opponents before and after a match. It’s a code of conduct that we hold ourselves too,” said Sand.
Despite the fact that there are other measures being considered during this legislative session, the governor claimed that this one was by far the easiest for him to sign.
“In part because there are just 13 words. State sport: ‘Curling is the official sport of the State of North Dakota,’ that’s the whole bill. We like that cut through the red tape, get it done. I wish all the bills were that straightforward,” said Gov. Burgum.
