The Bucks County Curling Club Junior Program gives young athletes the opportunity to learn curling, develop their skills, make friends, and become part of a welcoming curling community. Our program is designed primarily for curlers ages 10–18, from complete beginners stepping onto the ice for the first time to experienced athletes pursuing competitive goals. No previous curling experience is required.
Why Curling? Curling is a unique sport that combines physical skill, strategy, communication, teamwork, and concentration. Success is not determined by size, speed, or strength. Athletes develop balance, coordination, touch, decision-making, and the ability to work closely with teammates. Curling is also built on a strong tradition of sportsmanship. Players are expected to compete honestly, respect their opponents, encourage their teammates, and take responsibility for their actions on and off the ice. Most importantly, curling is fun. It provides young people with the opportunity to build friendships, gain confidence, and learn a sport they can enjoy for a lifetime.
Our Program Goals The Junior Program strives to:
Introduce young people to curling in a safe, positive, and supportive environment.
Promote an active lifestyle while making practices enjoyable and engaging.
Teach the fundamentals of delivery, sweeping, strategy, communication, and teamwork.
Provide opportunities for organized games and meaningful in-game coaching.
Help recreational curlers enjoy the sport and continue developing at their own pace.
Support athletes who want to pursue bonspiels, championships, and competitive excellence.
Build a junior curling community centered on sportsmanship, responsibility, friendship, and respect.
What to Expect Junior sessions are generally held on Saturday mornings from 9:00–11:30 a.m. Exact dates may vary because of club events, competitions, and holidays, so families should always review the schedule provided during registration. Practices typically include a combination of:
Individual and small-group instruction
Delivery, sweeping, and weight-control drills
Team communication and strategy
Situational exercises
Scrimmages and full games
In-game instruction and feedback
New curlers receive focused introductory instruction during their first practices. Once they are comfortable with the basic delivery, sweeping, scoring, and on-ice safety, they join other participants in groups based on experience and ability. Because every group of athletes is different, lesson plans are adjusted throughout each session to meet the needs of the participating curlers.
Skills We Teach Instruction may include:
Curling Fundamentals
On-ice safety and etiquette
The objective and rules of curling
Scoring and player positions
Delivery balance and body position
Grip, release, and rotation
Proper alignment
Sweeping technique
Shot-Making
Draw weight and placement
Guards
Takeouts
Hit-and-rolls
Peels
Raises and promotions
Weight control and line of delivery
Team Play and Strategy
Effective sweeping communication
Reading the ice
Playing with and without the hammer
Free Guard Zone strategy
Shot selection
End management
Team roles and decision-making
Positive communication under pressure
Beginners Are Welcome No experience is necessary, and all essential curling equipment can be provided by the club.