Utica to Host International Curling Competition
UTICA, N.Y. — The NBT Bank Arena will be hosting an international curling competition this January. A new mixed-gender curling league, known as Rock League, aims to bring fresh energy to the sport, featuring teams comprised of five men and five women.
Rock League is the world’s first professional curling league of its kind, featuring six franchises, including two from Canada, two from Europe, one from Asia Pacific, and the American team, Frontier. The American team is led by Olympic medalist Korey Dropkin.
“There’s so much energy. It’s curling at new heights, rebranded. I enjoy playing in a packed stadium where the crowd is vibrant and enthusiastic,” Dropkin stated.
Approximately 60 volunteers from the Utica Curling Club will assist first-time fans in learning the game. Dropkin aspires to fill the arena and generate excitement among spectators.
“It’s become a viral term ‘peel,’ and the crowd will cheer: Peel, peel, peel!” Dropkin added.
Utica was chosen as the competition location due to its track record for successfully hosting similar unique events, according to Keith Veronesi, chief revenue officer of Mohawk Valley Garden.
“Our community’s engagement is strong when events come to Utica,” Veronesi remarked.
Currently, about 100,000 people in the United States try curling each year. Dropkin notes that interest in curling sees significant spikes around the Olympics, and he wants to provide fans with more opportunities to enjoy the sport.
Local competitions are set for January 7-10 at the NBT Bank Arena, providing Central New Yorkers with a fresh winter experience.
“A global event like this influences community dynamics, attracting those who may not initially be interested but want to witness the spectacle,” said Anthony Picente, Oneida County executive. “This benefits the city and the surrounding area, boosting local restaurants and hotels.”
