PARA ATHLETE ID CAMP HELD, WHEELCHAIR NATIONAL TEAM SELECTED

CHAMPIONSHIPS

May 16

[EAGAN, MN, May 16th, 2023] — On April 29-May 1, USA Curling held a Paralympic Curling Athlete Identification Camp at the Denver Curling Club in Golden, CO. Invites were extended to nine athletes with experience performing at high levels in other sports, including Wheelchair Rugby, Tennis, Softball, Hand Cycling, Rock Climbing, and Basketball. States represented were Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts, and North Dakota.

Participants started the camp with an off-ice introduction to the sport—curling terminology, equipment, strategic concepts. On-ice instruction followed and incorporated delivery techniques, skill shots, and gameplay. Instruction was provided by Paralympian Steve Emt ('18, '22), National Team Leader Marc DePerno, National Wheelchair Program Director Pete Annis, and Coach Jessica Schultz.

The athleticism and enthusiasm were exceptional, and each participant expressed interest in continuing their journey in the sport at a curling club in their area. We extend special thanks to all the volunteers at the Denver Curling Club, led by Pam Finch and Karen Bronson.

Following the Athlete Identification Camp, the National Wheelchair Selection tryout was held. Sixteen competitors vied for spots on the 2023-24 Wheelchair National Team, and eight athletes were selected. The 2023-2024 Wheelchair National Team roster is as follows:

Dan Rose

Dave Samsa

Laura Dwyer

Matt Thums

Oyuna Uranchimeg

Pam Wilson

Shawn Sadowski

Steve Emt

We congratulate these athletes on their selection to the National Wheelchair Curling Team, and we look forward to seeing this group build on the success of recent years.

wheelchairidcampwheelchaircampcampnationalteam