About the Sport
Curling has a long and rich history. While its origins are lost in the mists of time, Scottish
curlers were already playing the game by the beginning of the 16th century on frozen ponds and
lochs. Their earliest equipment included stones formed by nature, each one unique. These stones
often curved, or “curled,” as they slid down the ice, and players used besoms or brooms
to clear snow and debris from the path of the stones.
Today, curling is a game of strategy, finesse and strength, contested by teams generally
comprised of four players. The principle is simple — get your stone closer to the center of
the target circles, called the “house,” than your opponent. Players of all skill levels
can participate and compete even at older ages than most sports allow.
Respect, honor and tradition are core elements of the game. Curlers are close-knit, and you can
rely on a warm welcome in curling clubs throughout the world. Tradition calls for both teams to sit
together after a game, discussing what was and what might have been. Come join us.
A 2-Minute Guide to Curling
Curling Etiquette
Start with a handshake. At the beginning of the game, greet the opposing team
with a handshake, tell them your name, and wish them “Good Curling.”
Finish with a handshake. When the game is over, offer each player a hearty
handshake and move off the ice. The winning curlers traditionally offer their counterparts some
refreshments.
Keep the ice clean. Change your shoes. Sand, grit and dirt are the ice’s
worst enemy. The shoes you wear should only be used for curling.
- Compliment good shots, no matter which team makes them. Respect your opponent.
- Be ready — take your position in the hack as soon as your opponent has delivered.
Keep the game moving.
- Be prepared to sweep as soon as your teammate releases the rock.
- After delivering, move to the side of the sheet between the hog lines unless you are the skip.
Leads and seconds are not permitted in the house or rings except when sweeping or removing stones.
- Don’t distract your opponent in the hack. Sweepers stay on the sidelines between the
hog lines when not sweeping.
- Place your skip’s rock in front of the hack to help speed up the game.
- If your game is an end or two behind the others, pick up the pace.
Curling Tips
Some basic curling tips for curlers of all skill levels, courtesy of Curl up With Jamie
Sinclair.
