The 2025 USA Women's Curling Nationals are upon us, and excitement is in the air! Duluth, Minnesota, a known curling hotspot , will host the championship at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) from January 27th to February 2nd . With the Olympic Team Trials looming, the intensity is amplified for these athletes. Let's explore the captivating storylines and backstories that will make this tournament unforgettable.  Â
Team Peterson: Seeking a Third Consecutive Title
Team Peterson enters the tournament as the reigning champions, aiming for their third consecutive win . Skip Tabitha Peterson, a two-time Olympian , leads a team with a wealth of experience and a history of success. Her sister, Tara Peterson, joins her on the team, creating a unique dynamic in their communication and strategy . With Cory Thiesse, a 2023 World Mixed Doubles gold medalist , playing third, Team Peterson has a strong lineup. However, Tabitha's recent return from maternity leave adds an element of intrigue . She may opt to skip and call the game while Cory Thiesse throws last rocks, as they did at the Perth Masters in Scotland, where they reached the semifinals with coach Cathy Overton-Clapham throwing lead rocks . How will this impact their performance and their quest for another national title?  Â
Team Strouse: A Young Team on the Rise
Delaney Strouse and her team made a splash two years ago with a strong showing at the national championship in Denver . Despite facing challenges in the 23-24 season, Team Strouse remains a contender. With the addition of Sarah Anderson, a two-time national champion , as their third, their combined talent and drive could propel them to victory. Can they recapture their earlier momentum and challenge Team Peterson for the championship?  Â
Team Benson: Hometown Advantage and Winning Streak
Team Benson will have the support of the home crowd in Duluth, as all four members are from the city . They are coached by Courtney Benson's brother, Tyler George, an Olympic gold medalist, further strengthening their local connection . With two recent wins under their belt, Team Benson is on a winning streak. Can they harness the energy of the home crowd and make a strong run in the tournament?  Â
Team Giroux: The Next Generation of Curling Stars
Team Giroux, the 2024 Junior Women's national champions, represents the future of USA Curling . This young and talented team is eager to compete against the more experienced teams. Their second, Ella Fleming, made history as the first black American to represent the United States at a World Curling event . With their youthful energy and determination, Team Giroux could be a dark horse in the tournament.  Â
Olympic Aspirations
The 2025 Nationals hold immense significance as a crucial step towards the Olympic Team Trials . The winners of this championship will earn a coveted spot in the Trials, which will be held in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in November 2025 . This adds another layer of pressure and motivation for the teams, as they compete not only for the national title but also for a chance to represent the United States at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina. The 2025 Nationals serve as a proving ground for these athletes, where they can showcase their skills and demonstrate their readiness for the Olympic stage.
Conclusion: A Championship with High Stakes and a Bright Future
The 2025 USA Women's Curling Nationals are more than just a championship; they represent a pivotal moment in the evolution of women's curling in the USA. With the Olympics on the horizon and a new generation of talented curlers emerging, the sport is experiencing a surge in popularity and competitiveness. The storylines and backstories surrounding the teams and players add depth and intrigue to the championship. Team Peterson's quest for a third consecutive title, Team Strouse's resurgence, Team Benson's hometown advantage, and Team Giroux's youthful energy all contribute to the excitement. The 2025 Nationals will be a showcase of athleticism, strategy, and sportsmanship, as these athletes compete for the national title and a chance to represent their country on the world stage. The championship also highlights the growth of curling at all levels, from junior programs to senior competitions, ensuring a bright future for the sport in the USA.