The Grand Slam of Curling is exploring the use of a draw-to-the-button shootout as an alternative to extra ends, with recent events in Saskatoon showcasing a return to the traditional format. The shootout was initially introduced during the AMJ Masters in September for the preliminary rounds and tiebreakers, and later extended to include playoffs in the Co-op Tour Challenge and Kioti GSOC Tahoe tournaments.
Notable moments ensued from the change, such as Anna Hasselborg’s draw to the button in a women’s semifinal during the Tour Challenge, where Rachel Homan’s precise shot secured her advancement. In the men’s final in Tahoe, Scotland’s Bruce Mouat narrowly outperformed Canada’s Matt Dunstone to claim victory.
The decision to implement the shootout was motivated by marketing considerations, aiming to enhance the viewing experience for television audiences while adding a dynamic element akin to NHL shootouts. Despite receiving mixed feedback from curlers, the return of extra ends for tiebreakers and playoffs at the HearingLife Canadian Open in Saskatoon was influenced by the significant number of Olympic-bound teams participating.
In Saskatoon, tiebreakers were resolved using shootouts during the round-robin games, with playoffs scheduled to commence on Saturday. Jennifer Jones, a world and Olympic champion and member of The Curling Group, acknowledged the varying opinions among players regarding the shootout format, prompting a balance in response to feedback.
Looking ahead, the format for tiebreakers and playoffs at the upcoming Players’ Championship in Steinbach, Manitoba, will retain extra ends, with a post-season evaluation planned to assess the effectiveness of the recent changes. The Grand Slam events have historically served as a testing ground for curling innovations, such as the adoption of eight-end games and rule modifications like the delayed touching of guards on the centerline.
Furthermore, adjustments to the game have included a reduction in “thinking time” for teams and limitations on blank ends to encourage more aggressive play and increase viewer engagement. The ongoing evolution of the sport was emphasized by Jones, highlighting the Grand Slam’s role in driving progress and embracing change.
In a recent development, The Curling Group unveiled plans for its Rock League, featuring international teams and prominent players like Rachel Homan and Brad Jacobs as team captains for Canada’s entries. The league, set to launch in April with a substantial prize pool, aims to showcase top-tier curling talent and expand its reach across various global locations in the coming seasons.
