THE SPIRIT OF CURLING

Bonspiel at Idaburn Dam, 2010 -  Photographer:  Janyne Fletcher

The Spirit of Curling

New Zealand Curling is committed to recognising 'The Spirit of Curling' and ensuring that this tradition is taught to our curlers. Our tournaments reflect the Spirit of Curling as participants can be awarded the 'Wendy Becker Memorial Trophy' at the NZ Men and Women's Championship.  At the Secondary School Competitions 'The Spirit of Curling' is recognised along with the 'Stewart McKnight Trophy' for Outdoor Curling.

Curling is a game of skill and tradition. A shot well executed is a delight to see, and it is also a fine thing to observe the time-honoured traditions of curling being applied in the true spirit of the game. Curlers play to win but never to humble their opponents. A true curler never attempts to distract opponents, nor to prevent them from playing their best, and would prefer to lose rather than to win unfairly.

Curlers never knowingly break a rule of the game nor disrespect any of its traditions. Should they become aware that this has been done inadvertently, they will be the first to divulge the breach.

While the main object of the game of curling is to determine the players’ relative skill, the spirit of curling demands good sportsmanship, kindly feeling, and honourable conduct.

This spirit should influence both the interpretation and the application of the rules of the game and the conduct of all participants on and off the ice.

2022-2023 Season: International Spirit of Curling Awards 

New Zealand Curlers have exceeded themselves Internationally in the 2022-2023 Curling Season, with three of our athletes honoured with the 'Spirit of Curling Award' at their respective Championships. This is a prestigious honour and is selected by fellow competitors at the World Championship.  

Darcy Nevill - 2022 World Junior Curling Championships in Jönköping, Sweden

Bridget Becker - 2023 Frances Brodie Award,  presented at the World Women's Curling Championship, Sandviken - Sweden

Anton Hood - 2023 Collie Campbell Award, presented at the World Men's Curling Championship, Ottawa - Canada.