Katie Verderber

Katie Verderber, a 35-year-old U.S. Army veteran from Jefferson City, Montana, has overcome paralysis to join Team USA's wheelchair curling squad for the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Italy. After a failed spinal surgery in October 2023 left her unable to walk, Verderber discovered curling in 2024, leading to her rapid rise in the sport. She credits the game with saving her marriage and life.