What US Curling Affiliated Clubs Are
US Curling affiliated clubs are curling facilities and organizations across the United States that hold membership with US Curling, the national governing body for the sport. These clubs range from dedicated curling-only facilities to ice rinks that offer curling alongside hockey and figure skating. Being affiliated means the club follows US Curling rules, hosts sanctioned competitions, and its members can compete in regional and national tournaments.
Affiliation gives you access to a structured competitive pathway. If you join an affiliated club, you can enter club-level events, may have access to for regional championships, and eventually compete at the national level. The club itself handles membership, ice time scheduling, instruction, and league play. US Curling maintains the official roster of these clubs so you can find one near you.
Key Takeaways
- US Curling affiliated clubs are listed on the US Curling website, searchable by state and region, with contact information and facility details.
- Membership at an affiliated club typically costs between $200 and $600 per season, though prices vary by location and whether you join a league or pay per-sheet.
- Most clubs offer beginner instruction and social leagues alongside competitive teams, so you do not need experience to join.
- Affiliated club membership is required to enter US Curling sanctioned tournaments and to compete at regional and national championships.
How to Find an Affiliated Club Near You
The US Curling website maintains a searchable directory of all affiliated clubs. Go to the US Curling homepage, look for the "Clubs" or "Find a Club" section, and enter your state or zip code. The search returns a list of clubs in your area with their addresses, phone numbers, websites, and sometimes their current membership status.
If you live in a state with multiple clubs, the directory shows which ones are active year-round and which operate seasonally. Some clubs are in major cities; others are in smaller towns. The directory also notes whether a club focuses on competitive curling, recreational play, or both. Call or visit the club's website to confirm they are currently taking new members and what their membership process looks like.
What Membership Typically Costs
Membership fees at US Curling affiliated clubs vary widely depending on location, facility overhead, and the type of membership you choose. A full season membership in a league usually ranges from $200 to $600, though some clubs in high-cost areas charge more. Some clubs offer pay-per-sheet options if you do not want a full membership—you pay a fee each time you use the ice, typically $15 to $30 per person per sheet per hour.
Many clubs also charge a separate initiation or registration fee when you first join, usually $25 to $75. If you want instruction, most clubs offer beginner clinics for an additional fee, often $50 to $150 for a series of lessons. Ask the club directly about their current pricing, because fees change year to year and some clubs offer discounts for families, seniors, or students.
Membership Requirements and What to Expect
Most affiliated clubs require you to be at least 14 years old to join, though some have youth programs for younger children. You do not need prior curling experience—clubs expect beginners and offer instruction as part of membership. You will need to provide basic information like your name, address, and emergency contact. Some clubs run background checks for positions involving youth, but this is not standard for regular membership.
When you join, the club assigns you to a league or team based on your skill level and availability. Beginner leagues play once or twice a week and focus on learning the sport. Competitive leagues play more frequently and enter sanctioned tournaments. You will receive a membership card or number that lets you book ice time and enter club events. Most clubs also have a dues structure—you pay your membership fee upfront, then may owe additional fees if you enter specific tournaments.
What Affiliated Status Means for Competition
Affiliation with US Curling is the gateway to organized competition. If you want to enter a regional or national championship, you must be a member of an affiliated club. Your club registers your team with US Curling, and you compete under the club's name. Club affiliation also means your results are tracked in the US Curling rankings system, which determines seeding for larger events.
Sanctioned tournaments—those run by US Curling or regional associations—are open only to members of affiliated clubs. These include club championships, regional playdowns, and the US National Curling Championship. If you curl at a non-affiliated facility, you can still play recreationally, but you cannot enter these official events. Many people join an affiliated club specifically to access this competitive structure.
Differences Between Affiliated and Non-Affiliated Curling
A non-affiliated curling facility is one that operates independently or is not registered with US Curling. You can still curl there and pay for ice time, but membership does not come with US Curling sanction. Non-affiliated facilities may have their own leagues and events, but these do not count toward national rankings or lead to regional and national championships.
Some non-affiliated facilities are excellent and offer good instruction and community. The main trade-off is access: if you want to compete in official US Curling events, you need to join an affiliated club. If you curl purely for recreation and have no interest in tournaments, a non-affiliated facility may work fine. But if you think you might want to compete later, joining an affiliated club from the start is simpler than switching.
How to Join and get your free guide
Contact the club directly by phone or through their website and ask about current membership openings. Many clubs have a membership form you fill out online or in person. You will provide your name, contact information, and sometimes a brief statement about your curling experience. Pay the membership fee and any initiation fee, and the club will assign you to a league or team.
Before your first session, ask the club what to bring. You do not need to own curling shoes or a slider—most clubs have equipment you can borrow or rent cheaply. Wear warm clothes and non-marking shoes for the walk to the ice. The club will teach you the basics in your first session: how to deliver a stone, how to sweep, and the rules of play. You will be curling with a team of three other people, and the club handles team assignments for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to own curling equipment to join?
No. Most clubs provide stones, brooms, and sliders for members to use. You can borrow equipment for free or rent it for a small fee. Many experienced curlers eventually buy their own shoes and slider, but this is not required to join or play.
Can I join mid-season?
It depends on the club and the league. Some clubs have rolling membership and add new members throughout the season. Others fill their leagues in the fall and do not take new members until the next season. Call the club and ask—they may have a waiting list or a late-season beginner league you can join.
What if there is no affiliated club in my state?
A few states have no affiliated clubs. In that case, look for non-affiliated curling facilities or clubs in neighbouring states. You can also contact US Curling directly to ask about starting a club or about upcoming events in your region.
Do I have to compete if I join an affiliated club?
No. Many people join affiliated clubs for recreational leagues and never enter a tournament. Affiliation straightforward makes competition possible if you want it later. Recreational leagues are social and beginner-friendly.
How do I learn about a club is currently accepting members?
Call the club directly or check their website for membership information. The US Curling directory sometimes notes whether a club is open to new members, but calling is the fastest way to confirm current availability and ask about their membership timeline.