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Feb 53 min read

An Unforgettable Day at the USA National Curling Championships

A Sunday at the mall in New Jersey is not the typical location for a world-class sporting event, but yesterday at American Dream, I had the pleasure of attending the USA National Curling Championships. As a young fan, I continue to be amazed at the incredible mix of talent, strategy, and collegial support that is evident in the curling world.


This image shows an indoor curling event, with several curling sheets laid out side by side. The sheets are marked with the characteristic concentric circles or "house" at the ends. Competitors can be seen on the ice, some in the act of delivering stones, while others are sweeping. Spectators are seated in balconies on multiple levels, with a glass balustrade providing an unobstructed view of the games below. The venue has a modern design, with a glass roof allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. Banners around the rink display logos, including one that identifies Columbia as the official apparel sponsor of USA Curling. The American flag is prominently displayed, hanging from the ceiling. The atmosphere is that of a professional sports event, with a focus on the curling matches taking place.
American Dream's ice skating rink was transformed to showcase 2024 USA Curling Men’s & Women’s National Championships

About four years into my participation in the sport, it still feels like this undiscovered gem, with an incredibly accessible community. The championships were more than just a competition. They were a celebration of curling. The venue buzzed with excitement, filled with fans donning their local club and USA curling apparel. The atmosphere was charged with camaraderie, as veterans of the sport and newcomers alike shared in the thrill of the game. The community spirit particularly struck me, as experienced attendees shared insights and engaged in discussions about the sport, making it an inclusive experience for all.


Dynamic banners around the venue provided curling trivia, educating newcomers and enhancing the experience for everyone. The level of play was exceptionally high, with spectators on the edge of their seats, reacting to the impressive shots and strategic maneuvers on the ice.


The event was a showcase of resilience and skill, with Team Peterson and Team Shuster emerging as repeat winners in the Women's and Men's categories, respectively. Team Peterson, led by Tabitha Peterson and team members Becca Hamilton, Tara Peterson, and Cory Thiesse, clinched the Women’s title with a 10-5 win over Team Anderson. They have won three of the last four national women’s championships, and Team Peterson has represented the US in the past two Olympics. 


The image is taken from behind a glass barrier, looking onto an indoor curling rink during a competitive event. Two curling sheets are visible, each with the house or target area clearly marked. On the nearest sheet, a player is in the process of delivering a stone, with one foot extended behind them on a slider, while another teammate prepares to sweep. Spectators can be seen in the background, watching from an overlooking balcony, which indicates the event is open to public viewing. Advertisements and banners, including one for Columbia and Twin Cities Orthopedics, suggest commercial sponsorship. The environment is lively with the presence of competitors and audience members engaged in the event.
Team Peterson on their way to the gold medal.

On the men's side, Team Shuster, led by John Shuster with team members Chris Plys, Matt Hamilton, Colin Hufman, and John Landsteiner, claimed the title with an 11-6 comeback win over Team Dropkin. Impressively, this is Shuster's 9th national title! Team Shuster has been to five straight Olympics and took home the gold in 2018. Both teams will go on to represent the USA in the 2024 World Curling Championships.


The image shows a group of male athletes standing on a curling sheet, all dressed in matching team apparel, which includes baseball caps, jackets, and athletic trousers. They appear to be a curling team, each adorned with a medal, indicating they may have won a competition. One of the team members is holding a trophy, suggesting that they are the champions of the event. They are attentively listening to a person standing opposite them, who is dressed in business attire and seems to be addressing the team or possibly conducting an award presentation. The setting includes promotional banners for Twin Cities Orthopedics, hinting that the event is sponsored or supported by that organization. The atmosphere is one of celebration and ceremony as the team receives recognition for their achievement.
Team Shuster accepting their gold medals from USA Curling CEO Dean Gemmell

The winning teams showcased the importance of strategy and precision, with Team Peterson and Team Shuster securing their victories through critical steals and high-scoring ends. With Team Anderson scoring an impressive 4 points in the 5th end, and Team Shuster earning a game-changing 5 points in the 7th end.  This aspect of the game was a masterclass in seizing opportunities and the impact of strategic brilliance in tightly contested matches.


I was also very proud that the tournament had two participants who grew up curling at the same club where I've learned the game, the Ardsley Curling Club. Team Dropkin, which took home the silver medal in the men's bracket, featured Andrew Stopera. The bronze medal went to Matthew's childhood friend Danny Casper, who skips Team Casper. I had a chance to interview Danny for the GreatCurling podcast, and I hope to have the same opportunity with Matthew someday as well.


The event concluded with a sense of unity and celebration, as players signed autographs, engaged with fans, and celebrated their victories. I got to personally congratulate Tabitha Peterson, who I also interviewed on the GreatCurling podcast. It was a reminder of the appeal of curling, not just as a sport to play but one to watch and enjoy together. The USA National Curling Championships promised continued growth and popularity for curling, and I am grateful to have been a part of this remarkable day.


This image captures a group of people gathered at an indoor event for an autograph session. A man in the foreground, wearing a cap and a backpack, is focused on signing an item, while another person extends an object towards him for an autograph. Several others in the group appear to be fans, some taking photos with their phones, and others holding cameras and memorabilia, likely waiting for their turn to get autographs. The crowd is diverse, with individuals of various ages and styles of dress, united by their interest in the event. The background features colorful, whimsical designs on the walls, suggesting a lively, informal atmosphere. Overall, the image captures a moment of interaction between a personality and their fans.
Team Shuster members Matt Hamilton, taking a selfie with some fans, and Christopher Plys, signing my USA Curling hat, hanging out with attendees after their big win.

Interest in curling peaks during every Winter Olympics. There's a clear mainstream allure to this game, as players of widely varying age ranges and classically defined fitness can excel at the sport. It's a beautiful mix of finesse and strategy, like chess on ice.


Canada has a rich curling history and draws significant crowds to its curling events. In the US, outside of places like Minnesota and North Dakota, most Olympic viewers are unaware of how prevalent curling clubs have become across the country. There are now an estimated 185 clubs spread across the US, accessible across many major metro areas. Hopefully hosting the National Championships at locations like American Dream will help raise awareness for the sport.


Thank you to Dean Gemmell, CEO of USA Curling, and everyone involved in making this event a resounding success. Here's to the growth of curling in the US and to many more thrilling championships in the future!

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