Sliding to Success: Engaging Curling Drills for Kids to Master the Ice

Curling, often referred to as 'chess on ice', combines strategy, precision, and teamwork. It is an excellent sport for kids to develop not only their physical coordination but also their strategic thinking and social skills. To excel in curling, young athletes should engage in drills that enhance their sliding technique, sweeping proficiency, and stone placement. Below are some curated curling drills tailored for kids to help them master the nuances of the ice and become proficient in the sport.

Understanding the Basics: Introductory Drills

Before we dive into the specifics, it's essential for kids to get comfortable on the ice. Simple activities like 'ice walking', where children walk back and forth across the rink to feel the slick surface under their feet, help build confidence and balance. Once they're comfortable walking, they can progress to 'slide walking' - sliding one foot at a time while keeping their balance, which is the foundation of curling delivery.

The Art of Sliding

Sliding is the core skill in a curler's arsenal. Here's a step-by-step drill to teach kids proper sliding techniques:

Have the kids begin at the hack - the starting block in curling. Teach them the proper stance, with their dominant foot in the hack and the other foot ready to slide out.

They should practice pushing out from the hack without a stone, focusing on balance and a smooth motion.

Once they've mastered the push-off, introduce a sliding tool, such as a broom or a stabilizer, for them to balance as they glide across the ice.

As their confidence grows, it's time to incorporate the curling stone. Have them practice sliding while holding onto a stone, focusing on keeping their shoulders square and eyes up.

These sliding drills will help refine balance and control, crucial for accurate stone delivery.

Sweeping Skills: Building Endurance and Technique

Sweeping is essential for guiding the stone to its target. Effective sweeping requires endurance, strength, and proper technique. To build these skills in young curlers, try the following drills:

Practice the correct sweeping stance: low to the ice with one hand on top of the broom and one towards the middle.

Have the kids sweep back and forth across the length of the ice, focusing on applying even pressure and moving the broom briskly.

Introduce 'sweeping on the spot' where they sweep vigorously in one place to simulate the action needed around the house (the circular target area).

Upgrade the drill by having the kids sweep while walking or sliding next to a moving stone, teaching them to adjust their speed and pressure.

These sweeping exercises will sharpen their ability to judge the stone's speed and alter its path effectively.

Drill Games for Strategic Play

Understanding strategy and stone placement is as vital as the physical aspects of curling. Here are some fun drill games to enhance strategic thinking:

'Guard the house': Set up a scenario where one team must place their stones to guard the house while the other attempts to take them out. This teaches defensive and offensive strategies.

'Draw to the button': A contest where each player aims to place their stone closest to the center of the house, honing their aim and weight control.

'Mixed target practice': Place targets across the ice, and have the kids aim for different ones, developing their precision and adaptability.

These games simulate real-match conditions and help kids learn game strategy while keeping the drills enjoyable and competitive.

The Power of Practice at Home

While on-ice practice is paramount, there are several curling-related drills that kids can do at home to improve their game. Inspired by Australian Sports Camps, here’s how young curlers can stay sharp off the ice:

'Broom Balancing': Kids can practice balancing a broom on their hand to improve stability and hand-eye coordination.

'Mock Sliding': Using a slippery surface like a laminate floor, kids can wear thick socks and practice their curling slide, focusing on balance and smooth movement.

'Sweeping Stairs': Sweeping the stairs at home can mimic the action on the ice – it's great for building sweeping strength and endurance.

Incorporating these at-home drills ensures that young curlers continue to develop their skills even when they're away from the ice.

Wrapping it Up

By engaging in these curling drills, kids can make significant strides in their curling abilities. It's about combining fun with focused training to create an environment where their skills can flourish. Remember, the key to success in any youth sport is to foster a love for the game, and curling is no different. With these kid-friendly drills, young curlers will be sliding to success in no time!

Sliding to Success: Engaging Curling Drills for Kids to Master the Ice