The Rochester Curling Club welcomes young people 5 to 21 years old to our youth program, which gives instruction and coaching to all levels of interest.
We have three groups designed to be age– and skill level–appropriate: our youngest members are part of the "Ice Chips", and they progress into the "Ice Cubes" program before reaching the to the Juniors/Teens program. Read on for more information about each program.
Ice Chips
The Ice Chips program is designed for our youngest members, generally 5–9 years old. While participants are often the children of adult members, that is not required! The program has special stones designed ot be just the right weight for this group.
We teach the Ice Chips the fundamentals of the game, and the skills required to play at an age-appropriate level. Skills are usually practiced on a half-sheet of ice.
Ice Cubes
As young players’ skill, age and desire for competition grows, so does their progression into this group. The Ice Cubes program generally runs from about 9 to 12 years old. Depending on skill and desire, some kids may join this group sooner, and stay with it longer – advancement is made on a case-by-case basis.
Here, the youth learn to throw regulation size rocks the full length of the sheet. More skill and accuracy, as well as competition, is praciticed. This age group will start to learn about bonspiels, and individuals are encouraged to participate in a few bonspiels during the course of the season.
Juniors/Teens
Our program for juniors covers ages 13* to 21. Instruction and skills development is geared toward the increased capabilities of these curlers. Some of our juniors become quite competitive, participating in numerous bonspiels, while some play to enjoy the social aspects of the sport with friends. We strive to meet youth where they are, and develop individualized goals with them.
Practice Times
Juniors meet on Sunday mornings throughout the season, from October to April, depending on ice availability. If you’ll be joining us, please try to be at the Club by 11AM so you’re ready to be on the ice by 11:15AM.
If it's your first time, make sure to fill out a waiver!
Safety note: Helmets are required for Ice Chips and Ice Cubes (i.e., kids 12 and under). The Club does have helmets, but you can bring in a suitable helmet (bike or skiing with good visibility) if you prefer something already well-fitting.
Contact Info
If you have any further questions, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
* A Junior is defined by the United States Curling Association as ages 14-21. A Youth is defined by the United States Curling Association as age 13 and under.