Understanding Curling :
A Guide for Middle and High School Students

Curling is a winter sport where players slide heavy stones on ice towards a target area (the house).
Originating in Scotland in the 16th century, it has grown into a popular sport worldwide, including South Korea.
SPPS Curling emphasizes teamwork and provides students with opportunities to collaborate, communicate, and learn strategic thinking through the sport.

2. Basic Rules of Curling
Participants
Curling is played by two teams of four players.
Each team collaborates throughout the game, taking turns to deliver stones.
Stone and House
Curling stones are made of heavy granite and are identifiable by different colors and markings.
Players aim to slide the stones into the house, a circular target area.
Turns and Angles
The act of sliding a stone is called a 'turn’.
Players must carefully control the strength and angles to place the stone in the desired position.
Sweeping
Sweeping involves using brushes to reduce friction between the stone and the ice, enabling the stone to travel farther and maintain its intended trajectory.
Scoring
At the end of each set, teams score points for stones closest to the center of the house.
Each stone inside the house scores one point, with proximity to the center increasing the advantage.

3. Fundamental Postures for
Middle and High School Students
Preparing the Stance
Holding the Stone : Use one hand to grip the handle of the stone firmly while the other hand holds a brush for balance.
Basic Stance : Maintain a low center of gravity by bending one knee slightly and extending the other leg backward using a slider.
Delivering the Stone
Delivery : Slide forward smoothly, adding a slight clockwise or counterclockwise twist to control the stone's path.
Sliding Technique
Use the slider-equipped shoe to glide on the ice.
Keep your shoulders and hips aligned to maintain balance.
Sweeping
Sweeping adjusts the stone’s speed and direction.
Use controlled arm movements to minimize friction on the ice and improve accuracy.

4. Strategies and Techniques
Curling requires strategic thinking in addition to physical skill.
Key strategies include :
Guard: Placing stones defensively to block the opponent’s path.
Draw: Precisely placing a stone into a specific area of the house.
Takeout: Knocking an opponent's stone out of the house with force.

5. Practice Tips and Safety Guidelines
Practice Tips
Practice sliding to improve balance and posture.
Experiment with different angles and spins for better stone control.
Focus on teamwork during sweeping exercises.
Safety Guidelines
Wear slip-resistant shoes and move cautiously on the ice.
Warm up adequately to prevent injuries.
Always be aware of your surroundings while handling equipment.
Glossary of Curling Terms
House : The circular target area for stones.
Sweeping : Using a brush to reduce friction and adjust the stone’s path.
Draw : A precise shot aimed at a specific area of the house.
Takeout : A forceful shot to remove an opponent’s stone.
Guard : A defensive placement to block an opponent's shot.
