Aug 19, 20232 min read

The Simplified Guide to Curling Delivery

This is an image of a female curler in the process of delivering a stone in a curling match. She is dressed in a white and red uniform, with a Norway team patch, suggesting she may be part of the Norwegian curling team. The curler is in a lunge position on the ice, with her right hand extended forward, releasing the yellow-handled curling stone. She holds a red curling broom in her left hand, which is used for balance and sweeping. The stone is on the button, indicating a potential scoring delivery. The ice has the characteristic concentric circles of blue and red, defining the target area known as the "house" in curling. Her focused expression and the dynamic pose capture the concentration and skill involved in the sport.

Introduction

The delivery in curling refers to the act of throwing the rock. It's a process that has been refined over the years, emphasizing the importance of balance and consistent weight control. The delivery is described as a balanced delivery with tempo.

The Pre-Delivery

Preparation

Before you begin, ensure your slider is on your sliding foot. If you're using a gripper, take it off.

Sliding Device

Locate your sliding device, which will assist with balance during the delivery.

Positioning

Step into the hack and squat down to the setup position. This is where you'll begin your delivery.

Aiming

Look for the shot call and aiming point, typically indicated by a broom.

Rock Preparation

Clean the rock and adjust the handle to a 45-degree angle.

The Simplified Delivery Process

The Press

The initial movement in the delivery, the press sets the tempo. Push the rock forward by about 2-4 inches, ensuring the grip remains at a 45-degree angle. The waist should be the primary mover, with the lower body remaining stationary.

The Drawback and Step

Draw the rock back while lifting and shifting your hips slightly backward. This positioning allows your body to move forward and drop into the next step, channeling energy towards the skip's broom.

Unleashing the Power

After the drawback, it's time to generate power in the delivery. This involves the "Foot Delay" process, where the rock is moved forward without moving the sliding foot, allowing the upper body to drop into place and provide added power.

The Slide

Transition into the sliding position by moving the sliding foot under the chest and gently pushing out of the hack with your leg. The slide should be smooth, ensuring the rock remains on the delivery line.

The Trailing Leg and Foot

Keep the trailing leg straight behind your body and the trailing foot touching the ice either with the top or just the toe. This positioning minimizes drag and deceleration.

The Release

As you approach the release point, rotate the rock and straighten your arm. This "positive" release ensures the rock has solid rotation and forward arm movement.

Conclusion for Curling Delivery

In conclusion, the delivery in curling is a nuanced process that requires practice and understanding. This simplified guide offers a foundational approach for new curlers, ensuring they grasp the basics before diving into the more intricate details of the sport.