How to play...
Curling is a game of skill and strategy played on a sheet of ice. The only equipment required is a
broom and gripper-slider curling shoes. The curling stones are provided by the club.
There a two teams (rinks) that play on each sheet of ice. A rink is comprised of a Skip (the boss), a
Third, a Second and a Lead, with each rink having 8 rocks of one colour (2 for each player on the
rink).
The Skip stands at the one end of the sheet and signals with his brush and his arms. This indicates to the curler throwing the stone (from the other end of the sheet) the weight, curl and direction of the throw. Each rink throws alternating stones.
After all stones have been thrown, the closest stone (or stones of same colour) to the centre (button) of the circle score one point each. This is repeated for a total of 8 ends to complete a match.
It's as simple as that! well ... there are other aspects to the game like brushing (this is the exercise part).
To learn the terms of the game view the lexicon.
These are the rules (PDF) provided by the Canadian Curling Association.
Training sessions
Formal training and practice sessions can be arranged. A small fee may be charged. Contact the
Membership Chairperson for more information.
Curling Etiquette
The game of curling has always been noted for the prevalence of good sportsmanship among its members and the friendly, courteous rivalry that exists on the ice. It is also noted for having a minimum number of rules governing the conduct of its players.
Most of the courtesies suggested below will not be found in the rule book, yet they are practised by all curlers who understand the true spirit and traditions of the game.
- Be on time for your game and be dressed to go on the ice.
- Clean your shoes before stepping on the ice.
- Introduce yourself and shake hands with the opposing rink before the game begins.
- Be in the hack ready to play your shot when your turn comes.
- When a player is in the hack ready to deliver try not to distract the player's concentration.
- After a player releases a rock he or she should stand up immidately after a shot to avoid melting the pebble on the ice (with hand and knees) and move to the side of the sheet, to allow the next player to prepare sooner.
- Stand quietly and motionless to the side of the sheet between the hog lines when an opposing player is in the hack or studying their shot.
- After sweeping the stone sweepers should leave the house and go immediately to the sides. Do not return to the hacks by walking down the center of the ice.
- Don't be afraid to congratulate opposing players when they make a good shot.
- Don't embarrass a player who has missed a shot.
- Always be a gracious winner as a gracious loser.
- Shake hands with the opposing team after the game, even if they are old friends.
- The 2 teams who play against each other should sit at the same table after the game. This will help teams to get to know each other better, and show more friendship after game
- If you are unable to make it to your game, please notify your Skip 24 hours in advance, this allows the Skip time to find a spare.
- If a team is unable to play, please notify the opposing team's Skip and the league draw master as soon as possible, if another team misses the same draw the remaining teams can compete..
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