Have you seen curling on TV during the Olympics and thought it looked interesting but maybe it wasn't for you? Read below and maybe we can dispel any reason why you think it's not for you.
I'm too old to play / I'm too old to learn - You are almost never too old to play or to learn to curl. Waltham Curling Club has had members playing into their 90's and many members curl well beyond their 60's. We teach hundreds of new curlers every year and most of them, regardless of age, learn how to play in only 30 - 45 minutes. They might not be experts in that time, but they know enough to play and enjoy a spirited game. Because age isn't a factor, curling is one game that entire families can play together.
I'm too young to play / I'm too young to learn - While very young children may indeed be too young, most children age 10 or above have sufficient size and strength to begin learning to play. Initially they may struggle pushing the stones hard enough but many very quickly learn sufficient technique to play. Waltham Curling Club has a burgeoning Juniors program that will welcome your youngsters with open arms. Again, this means the kids can play with mom and dad and make it a family sport.
I can't bend my knees like those curlers on TV - Yes, curlers on TV deliver the stone while doing a deep knee bend but you can curl without doing that. A "curling stick" allows curlers to "throw" stones while standing fully upright. Numerous Club curlers with knee issues or other phyical restrictions, use these and curl as competitively as others. Waltham Curling Club has several of these curling sticks available for your use.
I've never been good at sports - The great thing about curling is that you don't have to be a top-notch athlete to play, or to even be great. You don't have to be tall, you don't have to strong, you don't have to be fast, you just have to be willing to try something new and have fun. Curling is a game that involves strategy, finesse, and more than anything a desire to socialize, meet new people, and have fun.
It's too expensive - Waltham Curling Club has several membership types ranging from $50 - $200 to accommodate your budget and curling interests. You need no special equipment to begin curling. Waltham Curling Club has equipment that you can use at no expense. Once you have played for awhile, you may want to buy your own curling shoes and/or broom but even these can be purchased for very little money and then be upgraded as your curling career expands.
I don't have a team to play with - As important to curling as the ice, is the social aspect of the game. Friendly competition is a tenet of the curling community. Whether you want to join as an individual, a family, or a group of friends, Waltham will ensure that you are welcomed into the Club and placed on a team with experienced curlers who will help teach you the game and introduce you to other members. Even if you are unsure about curling but are looking for a way to meet more people and make new friends, come on out to Waltham. We'd love to meet you.
I hate the cold - Curling is played on ice and the air temperature is usually kept in the 30 - 40 degree range, but curling is energetic enough that most people actually stay quite warm. All individuals are different and many play in T-shirts, but for others, Waltham does have a heated viewing room just steps from the ice field where you can warm up. Wearing layers will allow you to stay comfortably warm while having a great time.
Have any other concerns, questions or reasons why you think curling isn't for you? Feel free to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we'll be happy to address your comments. If you want to at least give curling a try, keep an eye on our website and look for an Open House or other public event coming this fall.
