Willmar Curling of Willmar, Minnesota

FAQs

1. What kind of organization are you?

We are a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to fostering competitive curling for youth and adults.

2. Do I need a team to join the WIllmar Curling Club?

No, however it is best. There are usually teams looking for a player or two, and there are always individuals and pairs looking to put together a team. Contact us and/or watch this website for details on upcoming events like our annual Open House, our annual Novice Spiel, and WCER Open Curling program. The Willmar Curling Club will do our best to help facilitate the formation of new teams.

3. Do you have to be a member of the Willmar Curling Club to try curling?

No. There is an Open Curling program that is sponsored by Willmar Community Ed and Rec, and is facilitated by the Willmar Curling Club. However you do need to be a registered and paid member of the Willmar Curling Club to play in a league.

4. How many leagues do you have?

Currently we have two. It does vary each year based on the number of teams; however, we currently have an "A" League, considered somewhat more competitive, and a "B" League, considered somewhat novice and less competitive. Both play on Wednesday nights and ALL teams get an even number of early and late draws.

5. What is the difference between the leagues?

Size, experience and competitiveness. The "A" League is about 14 to 16 teams and generally has curlers with two or more years of curling. Maybe a little more competitive. The "B" League is about 6 teams and has newer, more recreational curlers in it. This is were you get your start.

6. Do I need to pay by credit card?

NO. Credit card payment is available on line but not necessary. You have the option of printing out your registration invoice and mailing it in with a check. If you mail it in immediately, we will use the date you registered as your "joining" date, not the day we received it.

7. Does our team need to have a paid alternate on our roster?

No, it is not required but strongly encouraged. Every week there are players that can not make it; and every team needs to prepare for that. Your paid alternate can substitute on any team in the league.

8. Does our whole team need to be registered to secure our spot in a league?

Yes. Curling leagues are gaining popularity and fill up faster every year. It is on a first come - first serve basis. When a team has 4 regulars paid, they are in.

9. When I register for a Family Membership, am I also registering my junior(s)?

Yes, well sort of. Up to two juniors are included in the Family membership. The WCC will be contacting all of the Family Memberships by phone or email to verify if they have any junior league players - we will then register them through WCER for you.

10. Does my membership include dues to the local and national curling associations?

Yes, it does. In fact, the Willmar Curling Club recognizes the fact that the United States Curling Association and the Minnesota Curling Association are very important to the success of curling locally, nationally and world wide. Their contributions are great, both directly and indirectly for startups, existing clubs, and at the elite level of curling.

How is curling played?
1. So, are you the person that uses that "stick" thing or are you the one that pushes the rock?
	Both. You rotate; there are four people on your team and each person throws two stones.
2. What is all the yelling about?
	The yelling is how curlers "communicate" what needs to be done. They are judging the speed and path, known as the "weight and line" of the curling stone in attempt to place it in the perfect strategic position to help win the end, and eventually the game.
3. Whats up with the person standing around in the target with a stick?
	That person is the "skip", and they stand in the "house" holding a "broom", or sometimes called a "brush". The skip is the leader of the team; generally a very consistent thrower, good with curling strategy, and can "read" the ice and stone conditions to the teams advantage. The skip usually throws the last two stones and is the only team member that does not "sweep"; instead they have the task of contemplating strategy and calling the shots. However, curling is very much a team sport, and many believe that the most important quality of a good skip is the ability to listen and work well with others.
4. So what's up with all the people standing around in the circles talking?
	Curling is a very strategic game. It can get complicated and teams will discuss their options, sometimes at great length. It is for this reason that curling is more accurately referred to as "chess on ice"; as opposed to bowling or shuffleboard on ice.