The Heart of Curling!

The United States Women's Curling Association was formed to promote and conserve the best interests and the true spirit of the game of curling. The USWCA unites women's curling clubs throughout the United States to cultivate friendly relations among its members and their clubs, to promote international friendships, to preserve the tradition and literature of the game and to hold women's curling events each year.

If you would like an informational brochure, a full color brochure suitable for printing is available for download here.  

(July 25, 2020) by USWCA President, Beth Lepping

It is with heavy heart that the USWCA 2021 Winter Meeting and National Bonspiel in Madison, Wisconsin, are cancelled.  Again, the situations beyond the control of the USWCA have necessitated this outcome, as it is the decision of the Madison Curling Club Board of Directors not to host any bonspiels for the 2020-21 curling season.  Due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases here in Dane County, across Wisconsin and the country, uncertainty regarding how long the virus's threat will last, length of government-mandated restrictions on mass gatherings, lack of timely and sufficient testing, and inconsistent compliance with safety measures, this is clearly the responsible choice.

While navigating this pandemic and looking ahead to the prospective curling season, the choices on how to tackle all the issues associated with COVID-19 have been made especially difficult by attempting to safeguard the health and safety or our members while fashioning some sort of season.  Bonspiels would be an obvious casualty and surely would be unable to resemble those of years past.  After all, everything about a bonspiel is social.  We curl together, we broomstick together, we eat and drink together, we travel together, we room together - there is little about a bonspiel involving social distancing.  Sadly, suggested 'best practices' designed to improve safety do nothing to further a rewarding bonspiel experience.

Since before the USWCA 2020 National Bonspiel ended in Seattle, preparations have been underway in Madison to create a wonderful and memorable event for our members.  When the quarantine began, the planning carried on as did daily monitoring of the latest information from the CDC (Center for Disease Control) and Wisconsin DHS (Department of Health Services), and the USCA (US Curling Association), with the hope that somehow it would all work out.  Unfortunately, the news did not improve, and with so many people asymptomatic, it became clear that it would be impossible to adequately protect our members from the virus.

The goal has always been to safely provide the opportunity to meet, curl, and make and renew friendships.  With our members spread across the country, our meetings and bonspiels are often the only opportunities each year we physically connect, which makes cancelling that much more painful.  That being said, during these unprecedented times, our most essential responsibility is to keep everyone safe and healthy.  In the meantime, we'll see each other virtually, adapt where we can, and look forward to the 2021-22 curling season when we once again will be together.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who put in countless hours to create what would have no doubt been an extraordinary event, especially the National Bonspiel Committee chaired by Carol Arakelian, and the National Bonspiel On Site Co-chairs, Judi Page, Dae Jean Jahnke, and their committee.  I would also like to thank the Madison Curling Club for the opportunity to host our bonspiel.

(June 15, 2020)  By Beth Lepping, USWCA President

Special Announcement:  Based on the latest public health information on COVID-19 and careful deliberation and consideration, the decision has been made to cancel the physical gathering of the 2020 USWCA Fall Meeting in Madison, Wisconsin, and move to a Virtual Meeting.  This decision comes after close monitoring of the COVID-19 outbreak, advisories from the CDC, as well as state and local agencies.

I am personally disappointed in having to cancel, as I was very much looking forward to welcoming you all to Madison.  Nevertheless, events beyond our control have required this action.  This decision is based on protecting the health of our members, their families, and the curling community as a whole, and considers current recommendations of public health authorities regarding limiting large public gatherings and recommendation by the CDC regarding travel.  There is no way of knowing what will happen in the upcoming months but recognize making travel plans at this time under these conditions would be impossible.

Patience is appreciated as we work through this unprecedented situation and ask that you please hold on to your questions until we have more detailed information to communicate.  Initial details of the 2020 Virtual Fall Meeting will be announced as soon as possible.

(June 10, 2020)  The USWCA Nominating Committee is seeking candidates for the positions of Second Vice President for 2021 - 2022 and Comptroller for 2021 - 2023.  The candidates for Second Vice President must come from the West Region while the candidates for Comptroller can come from any of the four regions.  

The Second Vice President will advance to First Vice President and then President, each with a one year term, for a three year commitment in total.  The committee looks forward to hearing from you, as there are many qualified women in the West who would do a great job.   

The Comptroller position requires a two year commitment and with the possibility of being elected to a second two year term.  The Comptroller works closely with the Treasurer to carry out the financial responsibilities of the organization. 

The deadline for submitting Nomination materials is August 15, 2020.  For more information and necessary forms, see the links listed below.

• Nomination Solicitation Letter
• 2nd VP Nomination Information
• 2nd VP Nomination Form
• 2nd VP Candidate Form
• Comptroller Nomination Information
• Comptroller Candidate Form

(June 3, 2020)  UPDATE by Leslie Cooke, Senior Women's Bonspiel Procedure Committee Chair

It is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you that the Senior Bonspiel 2020 at the Columbus CC has been cancelled.  The Columbus Board of Directors has decided to cancel all bonspiels at their club for the upcoming season because of COVID-19.  This also includes the Super Seniors that was to be held the same week.  If your team has already sent in an entry form and check I will destroy both items in a timely and efficient manner.  I thank the Senior Bonspiel Committee for their support and hope that we can plan the Senior Bonspiel 2021 in the future.  Please let your teams know and I wish everyone a safe summer filled with much peace. 

(March 20, 2020)  As we look forward to late Fall, here's hoping that things have returned to normal. To keep our spirits up, let's start thinking about entering a team or as an individual to the 2020 Senior Bonspiel at the Columbus Curling Club.  Information and an entry form for this event can be found on the 2020 Senior Women's Bonspiel page.  Information regarding the 2020 Super Senior Fun Day, for ladies 65 or over years of age, can also be found on the 2020 Senior Women's Bonspiel page.

All monies and completed Senior Bonspiel entry forms are due to Leslie Cooke by September 11, 2020. (The entry form for the Super Senior Fun Day is not yet available and a due date has not been determined.)  You will be informed by e-mail of your team's selection shortly after the due date for the Senior Bonspiel so that you can make hotel and travel arrangements.  The on-site committee at the Columbeus Curling Club will be communicating with you after the teams have been selected about the bonspiel schedule and activities planned.     

(March 20, 2020) by Karen Brattesani, USWCA President

I want to commend the curling community for their response to the coronavirus threat.  Curling clubs across the nation have ended their seasons early out of a concern that they not spread the coronavirus.  As well, USA Curling and the World Curling Federation (WCF) responded by cancelling national and international competitions.  These measures were disappointing to all, but necessary.

As we at the USWCA plan for next season, we will continually evaluate our upcoming events, taking care to follow national and local guidelines for keeping us all safe.

 (February 28, 2020)  The 72nd Annual USWCA National Women's Bonspiel, "Experience Seattle", was held at the Granite Curling Club in Seattle, Washington February 20 - 23, 2020.  Congratulations to the Roessler team from Centerville Curling Club in Galesville, Wisconsin, the winners of the First Event.  The team members, pictured left to right were skip Laura Roessler, vice Sara Hein, second Elyse Sorenson, and lead Ericka Overgard.  The field of 32 teams began their competition early Thursday morning and the finals finished mid afternoon Sunday.

For more results and other information, please go to the National Women's Bonspiel 2020 page.   

(November 24, 2019)  The 38th USWCA Senior Women's National Bonspiel, "A New York State of Mind", was held November 21 - 24, 2019 at the Albany Curling Club in Albany, NY.  With just 2 sheets, the Albany Curling Club limited the number of teams from around the country to 16. But that did not reduce the intensity of the competition and increased the comradeship between the curlers.  Congratulations to the Goldstein team from Albany, NY who were the winners of the first event.  The team members, pictured left to right, were skip Marilyn Goldstein, vice Kathy Bentley, second Martha Naber, and lead Wendy Berger.  

The 3rd Super Senior Fun Day was scheduled for November 20, 2019 and 2 draws were held before the Sr. Women's National Kit Party took place Wednesday evening.   

Support the USWCA by Supporting Your USWCA Rep. (by Karen Brattesani, USWCA President)

Every September, 60 - 70 USWCA representatives from across the country meet in the organization's president's hometown to plan the upcoming season.  This fall, I have the pleasure of welcoming these dedicated women to Seattle. 

For each club representative, attending the two annual USWCA meetings is a volunteer commitment they make because of their dedication to youth and women's curling.  The meetings are an expense that most reps pay themselves.  Financial concerns are not new to volunteer organizations.  When it comes to the national meetings, the USWCA strives to be inclusive and accessible for all of our representatives.

The USWCA defrays some costs by providing partial travel stipends for our officers and committee chairs.  But we cannot cover travel expenses for our reps.  Although some committee members can join meetings remotely, face-to-face meetings are essential for the organization's future.

Individual clubs can make a big impact on attendance at USWCA meetings by allocating travel stipends for their representatives to attend national curling conferences.  I am grateful for the support I have received from my home club, the Granite Curling Club, which has provided its rep's travel expenses to every USWCA meeting since 2010.  Although the stipend may not have covered everything, it eliminated cost as a barrier to attendance.  Committing to the USWCA through travel funds does more than support the rep or the organization - it makes it possible for a club to best take advantage of every opportunity the USWCA offers.

What is your club doing to support the USWCA?  Reps, if your club does not financially support your work on their behalf at the USWCA, I encourage you to bring a proposal to your club board.

Club board members, the women and young curlers at your club stand to benefit from your USWCA rep's active involvement in the USWCA, as she provides timely information about USWCA-sponsored events, tours and small grant opportunities.  Your rep's participation in the USWCA connects your club with a national network of curlers, bringing news of bonspiels and innovative ideas your club can use.

Smaller clubs may not have the resources that larger ones do.  But they can make a commitment to their rep by setting aside a modest travel stipend each year.  A budget line item for this purpose is one way to build women's curling and a future for our sport among our youngest curlers. 

(February 20, 2019)  The 71st Annual USWCA National Women's Bonspiel, "Sweet Home Chicago", was held at the Chicago Curling Club in Northbrook, Illinois, February 14 - 17, 2019.  Congratulations to the Horn team from Mayfield Curling Club in South Euclid, Ohio, the winners of the First Event.  The team members, pictured above left to right, were skip Debra Horn,vice Irina Khusid, second Sue Frankel, and lead Courtney Schmidt.  The field of 32 teams began their competition early Thursday morning and the finals finished mid afternoon on Sunday.  

For more results and other information, please go to the National Women's Bonspiel 2019 page.    

(December 4, 2018)  Great News for 5 and Under Curlers!  The USWCA and USA Curling have joined together with John Shuster to sponsor the USA Curling 5 and Under National Championship Bonspiel.  John Shuster, 2018 winner of the first ever Olympic gold medal for the United States, has teamed up with the USWCA and USA Curling to bring together the best and most enthusiastic new curlers from across the nation to compete at the Duluth Curling Club, February 22 - 24, 2019.  It is only fitting that this bonspiel should get its start at the club that inspired John to fulfill his Olympic dream.  Winners of USWCA sponsored or Regional (i.e. GNCC, MoPac) 5 and Under events held in 2017 or 2018 are guarantee a spot if they are within the first 32 teams to apply by January 1, 2019.  For the other admission criteria and more information, go to the official 5 and Under Nationals web page to download the eligibility rules and application form. 

(Updated December 4, 2018) 

The 37th USWCA Senior Women's National Bonspiel was held November 28 - December 2, 2018 at the Centerville Curling Club in Galesville, WI.  The 32 teams from around the country 'Curled The Driftless'.  Congratulations to the Pielage team from Madison, WI who were the winners of the event.  The team, pictured left to right below, consisted of skip Kathy Pielage, vice Clarion Gilbertson, second Dae Jean Jahnke, and lead Judi Page.  The 2nd Super Senior Fun Day was scheduled for November 28, 2018 and 2 draws were held before the Sr. Women's National Kit Party took place Wednesday evening.  

Go to the Sr. Nat'l Bonspiel 2018 page for more information.                                             

(November 18, 2018)  On November 4, the 16 members of the Senior Friendship Tour met in Boston to begin their tour.  

The ladies finished their tour on November 16 and returned to Boston.  It was a wonderful trip.  Use #USWCAFriendship2018 to find their postings on most social media and @heartofcurling to find them on Twitter.  Or go to the Daily Report page to read about all of their adventures.

(February 24, 2018)  The 70th USWCA National Women's Bonspiel, "Goin' to Carolina", was held at the Triangle Curling Club in Durham, North Carolina, February 15 - 18, 2018.  Congratulations to the Longnecker rink from the Cape Cod Curling Club in Falmouth, Massachusetts, the winners of the First Event.  The team members, pictured here right to left, were lead Francesca Delle Femine, second Marinna Martini, vice Gabriele Bruce, and skip Krista Longnecker.  The team was presented their trophy by USWCA President Dawn Gutro, pictured here in red.  The field of 32 teams began their competition bright and early Thursday morning and the 8 teams in the finals finished mid afternoon Sunday.  For more results and other information, please go to the National Women's Bonspiel 2018 page. 

(February 11, 2018)  The USWCA honored Past President Donna Purkey (1994 - 95) with the USWCA Service Award at the Senior National Bonspiel hosted by Coyotes Curling Club in Tempe, Arizona. Past President Carol Stevenson presented the award to Donna during the Opening Ceremony and bonspiel kit party.  "We honor a very special lady," Carol noted in her moving tribute, "one who embodies the spirit of curling.  She has enhanced our beloved sport and the USWCA organization." Donna Purkey's list of accomplished is long and distinguished.  In addition to serving as the USWCA president, she played in the U.S. National Championships (1982).  She was captain of the 1996 USWCA Scot tour.  She is a former USWCA National Champion and a two-time USA Senior National Women's Champion (2007, 2008). She twice won bronze medals at the World Senior Curling Championship (2002, 2007).  Additionally, Coyotes Curling Club has honored Donna with an eponymous annual women's bonspiel, held for the first time in October 2017.  "It is with a deep love and most sincere appreciation that we recognize and honor our very own Donna Purkey," said Carol.  "Thank you, Donna, for being a shining star and an example to all of us."  (In the photo, Donna Purkey, on the left, holds the USWCA Service Award presented to her by Carol Stevenson, on the right.)

(reposted Feb. 2018, original post, May 16, 2017)  The USWCA will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2021, just 4 years from now.  We are looking for individuals interested in helping to assemble the anniversary book.  If you worked on your school's yearbook, this might be just the project for you.  For more information about the type of skills and help needed, click on the flyer to the left.  

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

(December 4, 2017)  The 36th USWCA Senior Women's National Bonspiel was held November 29 - December 3, 2017 at the Coyotes Curling Club in Tempe, Arizona.  This year there were 32 teams vying for the number one spot.  Congratulations to the Leslie rink from Nutmeg Curling Club for winning the national event.  The members of the team, pictured left to right, were skip Naida Leslie, vice Bobbie Stoll, second Jayne Beattie, and lead Karen Shane.  The theme of the event was Desert Jewels and everyone had a sparkling good time.  Outside the high temperatures hovered around 75 degrees while inside the ice house the low stayed at about 41 degrees.  No one complained about the variation in temperatures.  On November 29, the day began with the Super Seniors playing exhibition games.  There were 39 Super Seniors participating in that event.  Go to the 2017 Senior Women's Bonspiel page for more information and the complete results.