Like most sports this year, curling is going to look different thanks to COVID-19 and the safety protocols in place.

For a safe return, CURLSASK has released a set of guidelines, that include one sweeper and keeping all the rocks on one side of the sheet.

Skips and thirds in the house will not be allowed to sweep opponents rocks past the tee line.

CURLSASK Executive Director Ashley Howard, says the sport is one where physical distancing will not impact the overall integrity of the game, simply because curling is a sport where distancing is somewhat already part of the game.

“We’re really fortunate that we’re a sport where we’re able to stay away from each other when it comes to COVID restrictions and keeping that six feet apart, so it is a safe sport to get back into this winter,” Howard said.

When it comes to the strategy though and the type of shots thrown, Howard says changes might occur in that aspect, simply because of sweeping restrictions.

“Yeah there will be a change in that aspect, I’m thrilled that as a skip I won’t be able to sweep behind the tee line, that just helps encourage that I stay away from the other skip on the opposition team.”

She encourages everyone to head to the CurlSask website for more information and to take up the game this winter if you’ve never tried it before.