BUFFALO N.Y. (WIVB) — Veterans are forming bonds on the ice at the Buffalo Curling Club. Three years ago Army veteran Dan Walter teamed up with the Buffalo VA and the Buffalo Curling Club to start the veterans curling therapy program.
"It's very much team oriented which to veterans is very important. The camaraderie. Doesn't matter who wins or loses, it's a fun sport both mentally and physically challenges," said Army veteran Dan Walter, who is also a member of the Buffalo Curling Club.
The program allows veterans a chance to play regardless of age, physical limitations or cognitive abilities.
"All these adaptive sports, us that suffer from severe PTSD it's kind of like that lifeline for us," said veteran Raul Mercado.
"The military is a community and a family and this right here brings us all closer together," said Air Force veteran Martin Viggato.
"The Veterans have gained more confidence, communication skills, mental health skills, even physical skills have actually flourished," said VA recreation therapist Patrick McGowan.
To honor veterans, the Curling Club cemented their gratitude in the ice. On Sunday, the club unveiled a new house dedicated to veterans by showcasing each branch of the military.
"When the club showed in the beginning of the season the house that was going to represent all the branches of the military, I was wordless," McGowan said.
"It's a representative of all the services and even had the space force which is brand new. It's really amazing. It looks incredible," Viggato said. "This program is incredible."
"With Veterans Day being on Monday, it means a lot that we're giving back, showing respect," Buffalo Curling Club president Mark Ivanowski said. "Like the one guy said in his speech, when he came back, not many people were respectful. It's nice that can give back and show that we do care about them."
After forming three years ago, more than 150 veterans have participated in the Veterans Curling Therapy Program.
"I just can't say enough about the VA and the recreational therapy program they have and how it's been such a great outlet for us," Mercado said.
Sarah Minkewicz is an Emmy-nominated reporter and Buffalo native who has been a part of the News 4 team since 2019. Follow Sarah on Twitter @SarahMinkewicz and click here to see more of her work.
