What Is a Power Play in Curling: How It Works and When to Use It

I used to think a power play was a last-ditch, high-risk move you only try when you’re behind. I was wrong. After watching a mixed-doubles match live and trying the setup in practice, I realised the power play is more about choice and timing than pure desperation. If you’ve searched for “what is a power play in curling” you’re in the right place—I’ll explain exactly what it is, why teams choose it, and the common mistakes to avoid.

Quick definition: what is a power play in curling?

A power play in curling (mixed doubles) is a tactical option that lets the team with the hammer reposition the two pre-placed stones from a central setup to a corner setup, and it can usually be used once per team per game. The move aims to create scoring or steal opportunities by shifting play away from the centre and opening lanes for angled shots.

Where the power play comes from and when people are asking

The power play is specific to mixed doubles curling, a faster, more chaotic variant that uses two players per team and starts each end with two stones placed before the first throw. Interest often spikes when televised events showcase a dramatic or controversial use of the power play—people watching for the first time hear commentators mention it and search the phrase. For authoritative rules, the World Curling Federation sets the official guidelines, and a plain-language background is available on Wikipedia.

How the power play actually works (step-by-step)

Here’s the setup and sequence you’ll see on the sheet:

• Start of the end: mixed doubles places two stones in play before any shot—one as a centre guard and one on the button (or just off it), aligned centrally.
• When the team with the hammer chooses to use the power play, those pre-placed stones are moved to a corner configuration: the guard is placed to the side and the other stone is positioned behind it toward the house’s edge.
• Each team gets the opportunity to use a power play once per game (rules allow some nuances for extra ends; check event-specific rules via the WCF if in doubt).
• Declaring the power play is done before the end begins (or per tournament protocol) so both teams know the setup.

Why teams use the power play: the strategic logic

This is the cool part: moving stones to the side changes the geometry. Instead of fighting through the centre (where takeouts and guards are dense), you create an angled lane and a corner scoring pocket that rewards precise draws and raise shots.

Teams typically use a power play to:

• Convert a single-end hammer into a multi-point end by creating a scoring pocket away from centre traffic.
• Set up a steal when the opposition has the hammer (if timing and rules allow it) by making the opponent play into a less familiar angle.
• Force the opponent into difficult takeout or run-back choices that can produce errors.

Real-match scenarios: when a power play is a good idea

Think of three typical moments:

1. Early in the game, when you want to build momentum and take an early lead. A successful power play can produce two or three points and change the scoreboard pressure.
2. Mid-game, when you sense the opposition struggles with angled play or has weaker draw weight—exploit their weakness away from centre ice.
3. Late-game when you need a swing and your team excels at precise placement shots rather than heavy takeouts.

Common mistakes people make with the power play (and how to avoid them)

One thing that catches people off guard is assuming the power play automatically wins you the end. It doesn’t. Here are the biggest errors I see and practical fixes:

• Using it at the wrong time: Some players deploy the power play simply because they can. Fix: choose a moment when your team’s shot-making is trusted and when the opposition will struggle with the angles.
• Poor communication on placement and targets: Mixed doubles is fast; misunderstandings cost ends. Fix: agree on setup targets and backup plans before the end starts.
• Overcomplicating strategy: The power play simplifies some things but complicates others. Fix: have two planned sequences—a conservative line and an aggressive line—so you can adapt without panic.
• Ignoring opponent strengths: If the other pair has great runbacks or peels, a power play may gift them easier takeouts. Fix: scout opponent tendencies and pick moments where their strengths are less relevant.

Shot types and skills that make a power play successful

Precision draws, angle raises, and soft-weight hits matter most. You need players comfortable with:

• Delicate draw weight into a corner pocket under pressure.
• Raises that nudge guards and open lanes for a following shot.
• Controlled peels when the opponent sets up a counter—sometimes you must neutralise despite having chosen a side strategy.

Examples from match play (mini-stories)

At a club event I watched, Team A called a power play early after reading that Team B struggled with corner draws. Team A’s lead executed two perfect draws and the skip finished with a soft raise for three. Later that season I tried the same at practice and missed the final draw—shows how execution matters even with perfect tactics.

Another match involved a late-game power play that backfired: the opposition ran back and cleared the stones, turning the end into a single point for the power-play team. That one felt avoidable—timing and risk control were off.

When you shouldn’t use the power play

Don’t reach for it if your team is cold on draws or if ice conditions favour straights over angles. Also avoid using it when your opponents are excellent at runbacks and takeouts—you’re handing them a clearer path to disrupt your corner setup.

Rule nuances and where to check official wording

Rules may vary by event organiser. The World Curling Federation publishes official mixed-doubles rules and clarifications—always check their page for event-specific formats. For general background about curling rules and variants, Wikipedia offers a useful overview that helps new fans understand why the power play exists.

Practice drills to get better at power-play scenarios

Try these focused drills in practice:

• Corner draw repetition: ten draws in a row to a marked corner pocket to build consistency.
• Angle-raise chains: practice raising a guard into the scoring area followed by a finishing draw.
• Pressure simulation: have opponents attempt runbacks and peels while you execute the corner plan.

Coach’s checklist before you call a power play

• Are our draw weights consistent today?
• Does the opposition struggle with corner angles?
• Do we have a clear two-step plan (first shots, fall-back shots)?
• Can we afford to use this one-time option now?

Final takeaway: the power play is a tool, not a trick

Use it deliberately. It rewards preparation and cool-headed execution. If you approach the power play as a planned tactic—backed by practice drills, a read of opponent tendencies, and simple communication—you’ll turn a one-time rule into a predictable advantage rather than a gamble.

Further reading and official rules

For the official rules and clarifications, visit the World Curling Federation site. For general background on curling and variant formats, see the comprehensive overview on Wikipedia.