The Spirit of Curling

This excerpt is taken from the World Curling Federation handbook:
Curling is a game of skill and of traditions. A shot well executed is a delight to see and so, too, it is a fine thing to observe the time-honoured traditions of curling being applied in the true spirit of the game. Curlers play to win but never to humble their opponents. A true curler would prefer to lose rather than win unfairly.

A good curler never attempts to distract an opponent or otherwise prevent him from playing his best. No curler ever deliberately breaks a rule of the game or any of its traditions. But, if he should do so inadvertently and be aware of it, he is the first to divulge the breach.

While the main object of the game of curling is to determine the relative skill of the players, the spirit of the game demands good sportsmanship, kindly feeling and honourable conduct. This spirit should influence both the interpretation and application of the rules of the game and also the conduct of all participants on and off the Ice.

Curling Etiquette

Etiquette is the courtesy and sportsmanship that you show your teammates and your opponents so that everyone can enjoy the game and play as well as possible without being distracted.

Before the game:

  • Respect the starting time of your game.
  • If you are unable to play, inform your skip and find someone (a spare) to play for you. It is your responsibility to find a substitute player.
  • If you expect to be late, inform your skip or another member of your team.
  • If possible, be on the ice at game time.
  • Shake hands with your opponents, tell them your name and wish them good curling.

During the game:

  • Be ready when it is your turn to deliver a rock, or your teammates’ turn to deliver a rock.
  • Be quiet and do not move when your opponent is about to deliver a rock.
  • Stay on your own sheet of ice preferably close to the outside of the sheet when it is the opposition’s turn.
  • Pay attention to what is going on in your game. Use the opportunity to learn when a rock needs brushing or to learn game strategy.
  • Compliment any player on a good shot. Do not show your frustration at an opponent’s lucky shot or a teammate’s poor shot.
  • If you touch a moving rock while you are brushing, tell your skip immediately but do not stop the rock, unless told to by your skip.

After the game:

  • Give each of your teammates and opponents a handshake and thank them for the game before leaving the ice.
  • If you won the game, offer to buy your opponent (same position as you) a drink.
  • If you lost the game, offer to reciprocate after the first drink.
  • Offer to help any new curler or new member of the club with information about curling or the Club. Do not critique the skills of new members publicly, nor complain about your team’s misfortune.