Curling will look a little different this year, both on TV and at the local rink.
Curling Canada released a 29-page outlining safe practices so players can reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
The biggest change is in sweeping. Only one sweeper will be allowed, with additional markings on the ice to ensure social distancing by the team not throwing.
“Curling will look a bit different this upcoming season, but we’re pleased to announce there’s still a way to play while also ensuring that the safety of curlers remains a top priority,” said Danny Lamoureux, Curling Canada’s director of curling club development in a press release.
Sweeping an opponent's stone behind the tee-line is also prohibited.
Other changes on the ice are minimal. Pre and post-game handshakes are discouraged, with Curling Canada suggesting broom taps as a replacement. They also suggest using electronic devices to keep score and perform the coin toss rather than using a traditional scoreboard.
The return to play document also includes a waiver players will be required to sign, alongside other suggestions on how to run a curling club during COVID-19.
