In the opening women’s draw of the 2022 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Curling, all six women’s teams contested for their first victories of the championship.

Team Rhyme fell short to Team Christensen in their Olympic Trials debut. Team Christensen’s ability to score three points in three separate frames resulted in Team Rhyme’s concession after six ends.

Reigning U.S. Junior Women’s National Champions Team Strouse also competed in their first Olympic Trials game when they faced 2018 Olympians Team Peterson in the feature game. The junior team hung tough for the first five ends, keeping the score tied at 3-3, but it was in the sixth and seventh ends that Team Peterson pulled away, scoring five points that ultimately drove them to an 8-5 victory.

In the final women’s opening matchup, Team Sinclair played Team Bear.

"Starting off this week, our goal was to be present and to live in them moment,” said Madison Bear. “We just kind of embraced that. How often do you get to play in an Olympic Trials?”

For Team Bear, the 2022 U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Curling marks their first.  

“I have amazing teammates that make me look good and they're playing amazing,” said Bear.

After keeping the scoreboard even through the first three ends, Team Bear went on an eight-point run over the next four ends, resulting in a 10-2 score and their first Trials win.

“I'm just so grateful,” added Bear. “Regardless of the scoreboard, we're out there to have fun and enjoy each other. These are the memories we're making and that's all that matters right now."

USA Curling is sponsored by Columbia Sportswear, Toyota, Twin Cities Orthopedics, Training HAUS, Brakebush, ISS (Ice, Sports & Solar), and Sitrin, and is partnered with IHG, Rock Solid Productions Inc., Laurie Artiss Ltd. – The Pin People, and United Airlines.