How to Play Mixed Doubles Curling: Rules, Strategy, and Tips

Mixed Doubles curling is a fast-paced, exciting adaptation of the traditional game that has gained significant popularity worldwide. Unlike standard curling, which features four players per team, Mixed Doubles is played with two players—one male and one female. This variation introduces unique rules, strategy, and teamwork, making it both challenging and fun. Whether you're new to curling or an experienced player, understanding the key rules and strategies of Mixed Doubles can help elevate your game.

1. Basic Rules of Mixed Doubles Curling

Mixed Doubles follows most of the same core principles as traditional curling but with some important differences to account for the smaller team size and faster-paced gameplay. Here's a breakdown of the essential rules:

• Team Composition: A team consists of two players, one male and one female. Teams cannot have alternating male and female players during an end.
• Stone Delivery: Each team delivers five stones per end. The player who delivers the team's first stone of an end must also deliver the last stone. The other player delivers the second, third, and fourth stones of that end. The player delivering the first stone may change from end to end.
• Positioned Stones: Before each end, both teams position one stone on the ice. The team with the hammer (last stone) can decide where to place their stone, either in the house (Position B) or as a centre guard (Position A). The opposing team then places their stone in the remaining spot.
• Free Guard Zone (FGZ): No stone in play, including the positioned stones and those in the house, can be moved out of play before the delivery of the fourth stone in an end. Any violation results in the delivered stone being removed, and displaced stones are replaced by the non-offending team.
• Sweeping: After a stone is delivered, both players on a team can sweep their stone or any stones set in motion that belong to their team, anywhere in front of the tee line. However, sweeping is not allowed while the non-delivering player is delivering their stone.

2. Positioning Stones

The placement of the positioned stones is one of the key differences between Mixed Doubles and traditional curling. Each end begins with two stones already on the ice:

• Position A: The non-hammer team places their stone in front of or behind one of three designated points on the centre line, either closer to the house or closer to the hog line.
• Position B: The hammer team places their stone in the back of the 4-foot circle, aligning the back edge of the stone with the back edge of the 4-foot ring.

The positioning of these stones influences the strategies of both teams. Teams can use the positioning to either create scoring opportunities or make it more difficult for their opponents to score.

3. Power Play Option

Each team has the option to use a "Power Play" once during the game. The Power Play alters the positioning of the stones for that particular end, giving the team with the hammer a strategic advantage. Here's how it works:

• The team with the hammer places their stone in the back of the 4-foot ring, with half of it in the 8-foot ring and the other half in the 12-foot ring. This stone is placed directly behind a guard stone, which is positioned on the side of the sheet, away from the centre.
• The team without the hammer places their stone as a centre guard, but it is positioned to the side of the sheet, either closer to the house or closer to the hog line, depending on the team's choice.

A Power Play cannot be used in extra ends. This strategy creates a more open game, often leading to higher-scoring ends.

4. Rotation and Delivery Rules

The delivery order in Mixed Doubles is stricter than in regular curling. Each team must follow this rotation:

• The player who delivers the first stone of an end also delivers the last stone.
• The other player delivers the second, third, and fourth stones of the end.

However, the player who delivers the first stone can change from end to end, allowing teams to adjust their strategy based on ice conditions and the score.

5. Strategy and Tips for Success

Mixed Doubles curling places a premium on teamwork, communication, and shot execution. Here are some essential strategies and tips for playing:

• Communication is Key: With only two players on each team, constant communication is crucial. Both players must be able to read the ice, anticipate each other’s needs, and coordinate effectively, especially when it comes to sweeping.
• Control the Centre: In most cases, controlling the centre of the house is vital for creating scoring opportunities. Positioning your stones near the button and setting up guards on the centre line can force your opponent into a defensive position.
• Use the Power Play Wisely: The Power Play is a valuable tool, but it should be used strategically. If you're behind in the game, the Power Play can help you create more scoring opportunities. However, using it at the wrong time can backfire, so it's important to understand when the right moment is.
• Focus on Your Shot Variety: Since each player only delivers five stones per end, it’s essential to master a variety of shots. Common shots in Mixed Doubles include the freeze, tap-back, and takeout. By being able to execute different types of shots, you can adapt to various situations during the game.
• Sweeping Strategy: Sweeping is just as important in Mixed Doubles as shot-making. While one player delivers the stone, the other player can sweep to adjust the stone's trajectory. Pay close attention to the weight of the shot and the ice conditions to decide whether sweeping is necessary.

6. Getting Started in Mixed Doubles

If you're new to Mixed Doubles curling, here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Join a League or Clinic: Many curling clubs offer leagues or clinics dedicated to Mixed Doubles. These are excellent opportunities to learn the game and get some practice with others.
• Try It with a Friend: Because Mixed Doubles is played with two players, it's easy to team up with a friend or fellow curler. Whether you're both new to the game or experienced, playing together will help you understand the dynamics of the sport.
• Work on Your Fitness: Mixed Doubles requires both physical endurance and mental agility. The faster pace of the game means you'll need to be physically fit to keep up, especially when it comes to sweeping and quick decision-making.
• Watch the Pros: To get a better understanding of the strategies involved in Mixed Doubles, consider watching some professional matches. The World Curling Federation's YouTube channel offers a variety of games and tutorials that can help you learn the game.

Conclusion

Mixed Doubles curling offers a fun, dynamic, and fast-paced version of the traditional sport. With only two players per team, the game demands excellent teamwork, strategic thinking, and precision shot-making. Whether you're new to curling or looking to try something different, Mixed Doubles provides an exciting opportunity to experience the sport in a whole new way. So grab a partner, get on the ice, and start practicing—Mixed Doubles could become your new favorite way to play curling!