All about curling
Everything You Need to Know About Curling
Discover one of Canada's most enjoyable sports.
Whether you've never picked up a broom or you're returning to the game after many years, this guide will introduce you to modern curling and show you why millions of Canadians have fallen in love with the sport.
Welcome to curling
More Than Just a Game
Curling is a unique combination of strategy, teamwork, skill, sportsmanship, and community. It is one of the few sports where players of different ages, experience levels, and abilities regularly compete together while enjoying friendly competition and lifelong friendships.
Whether you're looking for recreation, exercise, social interaction, or competition, curling offers something for everyone
Why People Love Curling
🥌 Strategy
Every shot matters
🤝 Teamwork
Success comes from working together.
❤️ Community
Meet lifelong friends on and off the ice.
🏃 Stay Active
Low-impact exercise that's easy on the body.
🧠 Challenge
Physical skill combined with tactical thinking.
🎉 Fun
Few sports are as social before and after the game.
Curling Is a Sport for Life
One of curling's greatest strengths is that it truly is a lifelong sport. Many people begin as juniors, continue through adulthood, and remain active well into their senior years. As needs change, some players continue using a traditional slide while others choose a delivery stick. Both methods are common in club curling across Canada and allow players to enjoy the same game for many years.
Understanding the Game
How a Game Works
Timeline.
Pregame
↓
Coin toss / hammer
↓
Eight ends
↓
Score
↓
Handshake
↓
Social time
Meet the Team
🥌 Lead
Sets the tone for the game
The Lead gets every end started by placing the first stones. Great Leads are dependable teammates who enjoy setting up opportunities for the rest of the team.
🥌 Second
Builds on the Lead's work
The Second keeps the momentum going by making accurate shots and sweeping hard. It's a great position for players who enjoy being involved in every play.
🥌 Third (Vice-Skip)
The Skip's trusted partner
The Third combines shot-making with strategy, working closely with the Skip and taking over the house while the Skip delivers their stones.
🥌 Skip
Leads the team
The Skip is the team's strategist, reading the ice, planning each end, and throwing the final shots when every stone matters most.
New to curling?
Don't worry about choosing a position. Most new curlers try several roles during their first season, and experienced teammates are always happy to help you learn. You'll soon discover which position suits your skills and style of play.
Equipment You'll Use
Rocky Tip
You don't need to own any equipment for your first visit.
We'll help you get started with everything you need.
👟 Curling Shoes
Purpose
Specially designed shoes with one sliding sole and one gripper sole.
Why it matters
They help you slide smoothly while giving you the balance and control needed to deliver a stone safely.
🟢 Slider
Purpose
A smooth disc that fits under your sliding foot.
Why it matters
It reduces friction so you can glide farther and deliver the stone consistently.
⚫ Gripper
Purpose
A rubber cover worn over your sliding shoe while walking.
Why it matters
It provides traction on the ice and helps prevent slipping between shots.
🥌 Broom
Purpose
Used to sweep the ice in front of the moving stone.
Why it matters
Sweeping can affect how far a stone travels and helps teammates work together on every shot.
🏒 Delivery Stick
Purpose
Allows a player to deliver the stone from a standing position.
Why it matters
It lets curlers of all ages and abilities continue enjoying the game without changing how it is played.
⚖️ Stabilizer
Purpose
A lightweight balance aid used during delivery.
Why it matters
It gives new and experienced curlers added stability for a smooth, confident slide.
A curling stopwatch is a specialized tool used by sweepers to measure the speed of a delivered stone. By tracking specific distances, players can calculate how hard a stone is thrown, determine if it will reach the house, and monitor how ice conditions change over the course of a game
A curling stone (often called a "rock") is a heavy, round piece of polished granite used in the sport of curling. Weighing between 38 and 44 pounds, it features a handle on top and a concave bottom designed to glide across pebbled ice and curve (or "curl") toward a target.
Getting Started?
Don't worry if you don't own any equipment. The Rocky Curling Club has loaner equipment available for new curlers, and our members are always happy to help you choose what you need as you continue playing.
Discover Sturling
A Fresh Way to Enjoy Curling
Looking for a faster game with plenty of strategy and fun? Sturling combines the excitement of curling with a modern two-player format that's growing in popularity across Alberta.
🥌 What is Sturling?
Sturling is played by two-person teams instead of the traditional four. Each player throws six stones, creating a game that moves quickly while still offering all the strategy and shot-making that make curling so enjoyable.
Originally developed in Alberta, Sturling continues to grow as more curlers discover its unique combination of teamwork, skill, and fast-paced play.
Whether you deliver with a traditional slide or a delivery stick, everyone plays together on the same ice and enjoys the same great game.
🕒 Fast-Paced
Complete a game in 1 hour 1/2 the time of traditional curling.
🧠 Strategic
Every shot matters, keeping both players involved from start to finish.
🤝 Two-Person Team
Easy to organize and a great way to curl with a friend or family member.
🥌 Stick or Slide
Traditional delivery and delivery sticks are both welcome.
📈 Growing in Alberta
One of the fastest-growing club formats in Western Canada.
🏔️ Available at Rocky
Join one of our Sturling leagues and experience this exciting format for yourself.
Tip
Many of our Sturling teams include one player who slides and one who uses a delivery stick. It's a great example of how modern curling brings everyone together on the same team.
Ready to Give Sturling a Try?
Whether you're new to curling or have been playing for years, Sturling offers a fun, social, and strategic way to enjoy the game.
Your First Visit
Everything You Need for Your First Game
"Trying something new can feel a little intimidating—but don't worry. Everyone at the Rocky Curling Club was a beginner once, and we'll help you every step of the way."
✅ Dress Comfortably
Wear comfortable clothing that lets you move easily. Layers work best since you'll warm up while playing.
👟 Clean Indoor Shoes
Bring clean athletic shoes with good grip. We'll provide the curling equipment you need for your first visit.
🧥 A Light Jacket or Sweater
The ice is cool, but once you're moving you'll stay comfortable. Most curlers wear a light jacket or fleece.
🧤 Gloves Recommended
Many curlers wear a light glove on their broom hand for warmth and comfort while sweeping.
🥌 Equipment Available
Don't worry if you don't own curling shoes or a broom. We have equipment available to help you get started.
⏰ Arrive 15–20 Minutes Early
We'll introduce you to your teammates, answer any questions, and help you get comfortable before the game begins.
😊 Expect to Have Fun
You'll meet friendly people, learn something new, and discover why so many people enjoy curling year after year.
💙 Don't Worry...
You don't need experience.
You don't need expensive equipment.
You don't need to know anyone.
Just bring yourself—we'll help with the rest.
Everyone starts as a beginner, and helping new curlers feel welcome is one of our favourite traditions.
☕ Stay for the Social
After many games, members gather upstairs in the lounge to relax, share a drink or coffee, and enjoy good conversation. It's all part of what makes curling such a welcoming community.
Basic Rules of Curling
The Basics Are Easy to Learn
You don't need to know every rule before your first game. Your teammates will guide you, and you'll pick up the finer details as you play. Here are the basics to get you started.
🥌 The Goal
Score more points than your opponent by placing your stones closer to the centre of the house than theirs.
🥌 Each Team Throws Eight Stones
In a traditional four-person game, each player throws two stones during every end.
🥌 Games Are Played in Ends
A game is divided into several "ends," similar to innings in baseball. After every player has thrown their stones, the score is counted before the next end begins.
🥌 Sweeping Matters
Teammates sweep in front of a moving stone to help it travel farther and stay on its intended path.
🥌 The Last Stone Advantage (Hammer)
The team throwing the final stone of an end has the Hammer, which is often a strategic advantage.
🥌 Sportsmanship Comes First
Curling is built on honesty, respect, and fair play. Players call their own fouls, congratulate good shots, and treat opponents with courtesy throughout the game.
Rocky Curling Club Traditions
At Rocky Curling Club...
✔ Be ready to play when your sheet is available.
✔ Help keep the game moving at a reasonable pace.
✔ Respect your opponents, teammates, volunteers, and ice staff.
✔ New curlers are always welcome—don't hesitate to ask questions.
✔ Most importantly... have fun!
Don't worry about remembering every rule before your first game. Experienced teammates are always happy to answer questions, and you'll learn naturally as you play. The most important rule is to enjoy yourself and have fun.
Curling Etiquette
The Traditions That Make Curling Special
One of the things that makes curling unique is the respect players show for each other, the ice, and the game itself. These simple traditions help make every game enjoyable for everyone.
🤝 Shake Hands
Before and after every game, teams greet one another with a handshake or fist bump and wish each other "Good Curling." Win or lose, respect always comes first.
⏰ Be Ready to Play
Have your team ready when your sheet becomes available. Starting on time helps everyone enjoy a relaxed game and keeps the evening running smoothly.
👍 Respect Everyone
Celebrate great shots—whether they're made by your team or your opponents. Treat fellow curlers, volunteers, and ice staff with courtesy and appreciation.
🧊 Stay Clear During Delivery
When the opposing team is delivering a stone, stand quietly along the side boards between the hog lines. This helps players concentrate and keeps the sheet safe and unobstructed.
✨ Help Keep the Ice Clean
Good ice makes for a great game. Wear clean indoor shoes, keep your grippers in good condition, avoid shedding lint onto the ice, and help keep the playing surface clean throughout the game.
🍻 Enjoy the Social Tradition (Optional)
After many games, teams gather upstairs in the lounge to relax, visit, and share a drink or coffee. A long-standing curling tradition is for the winning team to offer the first round—but it's entirely optional. The real tradition is enjoying good company after a great game.
💙 The Spirit of Curling
Curling has always been known as a game of honesty, respect, and friendship. Whether it's your first game or your hundredth, you'll find a welcoming community where good sportsmanship is valued just as much as making a great shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Wanted to Ask About Curling
Still have questions? Here are some of the things we're asked most often by new curlers.
❓ I've never curled before. Can I still join?
Absolutely! Many of our members started with no curling experience at all. Our leagues are welcoming, experienced teammates are happy to help, and you'll learn the game as you play.
❓ Do I need to own curling equipment?
No. If you're just getting started, the Rocky Curling Club has equipment available for new curlers. As you continue playing, we'll be happy to help you decide what equipment is right for you.
❓ What should I wear?
Dress comfortably in layers that allow you to move freely. Clean indoor athletic shoes are recommended for your first visit, along with a light jacket or sweater. Many curlers also wear a light glove while sweeping.
❓ What if I can't slide?
No problem! Many of our members use a delivery stick instead of the traditional sliding delivery. Both methods are welcome in our leagues.
❓ Can I join if I don't have a team?
Yes! Many people register as individuals, and we'll do our best to match you with a team or help you find other players looking for teammates.
❓ Is curling physically demanding?
Curling is as active as you choose to make it. It involves walking, balance, light sweeping, and strategy, making it a sport that people of many ages and abilities can enjoy.
❓ How long does a game take?
Most regular league games take about two hours, while Sturling games are typically completed in about one hour.
❓ Is curling competitive?
It can be—but it doesn't have to be. The Rocky Curling Club offers a friendly, recreational environment where fun, sportsmanship, and community come first.
❓ What happens after the game?
Many members gather in the lounge after curling to relax, enjoy a drink or coffee, and visit with teammates and opponents. It's one of the traditions that makes curling such a social sport.
❓ Am I too old to start curling?
Not at all. People begin curling at many different ages. Whether you're looking for a new winter activity, a social league, or a lifelong sport, curling is something you can enjoy for years to come.
❓ Who can I contact if I still have questions?
We're always happy to help! If you have questions about leagues, registration, or getting started, simply contact the Rocky Curling Club and we'll point you in the right direction.
Ready to Give Curling a Try?
Join the Rocky Curling Club
Whether you're looking for recreation, friendly competition, or simply a new activity, we'd love to welcome you to the club.
