Questions and answers

Master Fantasy Curling: Common Questions & Expert Strategy

Understanding the nuances of fantasy curling is key to sweeping the competition. We’ve compiled the most important questions from the fantasy curling community and provided expert answers. Need more? Our support team is always in the hack, ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I manage my roster during a bonspiel/season? A: You’ll typically set your lineup before each game or draw. Use the waiver wire to pick up players who are performing well or whose teams have favorable matchups. Trades can help balance your roster if you’re weak at a certain position.

Q: Are there points for sweeping? A: Some advanced leagues might incorporate metrics related to sweeping effectiveness (e.g., judging weight, keeping stones straight), but most standard leagues focus scoring on the thrower’s actions and the end result (points scored, shot success).

Q: How do I get started with fantasy curling? A: It’s easy! Sign up, join a league, and get ready for your draft. You’ll draft individual curlers to fill positions: Lead, Second, Third (Vice-Skip), and Skip. Check out our mock drafts and player rankings to understand player values before you start.

Q: How does scoring work in fantasy curling? A: Scoring typically rewards points for successful shots (draws close to the button, hit-and-rolls, doubles/triples), high shot percentages, points scored in an end (more for steals than with hammer), ends won, and game wins. Negative points might apply for major misses or burned stones. Check your league’s specific settings for details.

Q: What’s the best draft strategy? A: Often, drafting elite Skips and Thirds early is wise due to their impact on scoring ends and making clutch shots. Don’t neglect Leads/Seconds known for high draw percentages or sweeping prowess if your league rewards those stats. Consider the strength of the player’s actual team.

Q: How important is a player’s actual team success? A: It’s quite important. Players on winning teams generally have more opportunities to score points, make high-pressure shots, and play in more games during major events. However, a great player on a weaker team can still put up good fantasy numbers.

Q: What stats should I focus on for different positions? A: For Skips/Thirds: Shot percentage (especially on difficult shots like doubles/takeouts), points scored, hammer conversion, steal efficiency. For Leads/Seconds: Draw shot percentage, guard placement accuracy, overall team plus/minus when they are playing.

Q: What are the fantasy positions and how do they differ? A: Positions mirror a real curling team: Lead (sets up the end, high draw weight focus), Second (clearing guards, setting up), Third/Vice (key setup shots, strategy input, often high difficulty shots), and Skip (calls strategy, throws last stones, high pressure shots). Skips and Thirds generally score more due to shot difficulty and importance, but consistent Leads/Seconds are valuable.

Strategic Tips for Fantasy Curling

Sweep smarter with these insights:

• Look for Thirds who excel at difficult takeout shots and setups.
• Balance your roster across positions; don’t load up on Skips and neglect the front end.
• Prioritize Skips who make clutch final shots and convert hammer frequently.
• Pay attention to major bonspiel schedules – players in more events have more scoring chances.
• Understand how your league scores different shot types (e.g., double takeouts vs. simple hits).
• Value Leads with high draw accuracy – they set the tone for the end.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t hog the errors! Avoid these pitfalls:

• Overvaluing players based on one great tournament performance.
• Not understanding hammer efficiency vs. steal efficiency scoring nuances.
• Focusing solely on points scored and overlooking shot percentages.
• Ignoring the consistency of Leads and Seconds.
• Failing to adjust strategy based on bonspiel format (e.g., round robin vs. bracket play).

Fantasy Curling Glossary

Know your curling terms:

Draw: A shot intended to come to rest in a specific location, often the house. Steal: Scoring one or more points in an end without having the hammer. Weight: The amount of force/speed given to a thrown stone. Hog Line: The line by which a stone must be clearly released by the thrower. Button: The center circle of the house. Bonspiel: A curling tournament. Hammer: The advantage of throwing the last stone in an end.

Need Assistance?

Here’s how to get support:

Help Sheet (In-App): Find FAQs, rule explanations, and scoring breakdowns.

Email Support: Contact our team for detailed questions (responses typically 24-48 hours).

Community Broomstack: Chat with fellow fantasy curling managers, discuss strategy, and ask questions.

Still Have Questions?

Our support resources and community are here to help you navigate the fantasy curling season. Good curling!