Matt Thums, a native of Weston, Wisconsin, will serve as skip for the U.S. Paralympic curling team at the upcoming Milano Cortina Games. This marks his second Paralympics appearance, following the 2022 Beijing event. The team, which includes one other returning member and three newcomers, formed in November after a rigorous qualification process.
Matt Thums has represented the United States in curling since 2019 and is set to compete in the Paralympic Winter Games beginning March 6 in Milano Cortina, Italy. As the team's skip, Thums brings experience from the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, where the event lacked spectators due to restrictions. This time, he anticipates a more supportive atmosphere, with about 100 friends and family in the stands, including eight immediate relatives, his girlfriend, and her parents.
The roster features Thums and Oyuna Uranchimeg as the only returnees, joined by first-time Paralympians Sean O’Neill from Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Dan Rose from Vail, Colorado; and Katie Verderber from Helena, Montana. The group has focused on building chemistry through intensive camps since their selection in November. “We’ve been packing in all the team chemistry, building and bonding and learning each other’s tendencies,” O’Neill said.
Thums, who curls at the Wausau Curling Club, emphasized the team's progress: “We’re gelling really well as a team... working together for the same goal of getting a medal.” Teammates praised his leadership. Verderber noted, “He’s a good person,” while Rose added, “He fully has my trust.” O’Neill highlighted Thums's experience, saying all advice from him is welcomed.
Each athlete has a unique background. O’Neill represents his Cape Cod club as its fourth Paralympian. Rose views the opportunity as validation for his efforts away from family. Verderber, who began using a wheelchair in October 2023, credits curling and the team for providing focus and support: “I don’t know where I’d be without them... We’re a family.”
The U.S. team opens against China. Thums advised focusing on enjoyment amid the pressure: “Enjoy where you’re at... You just want to represent, do everybody proud.” He takes pride in honoring the Wausau community.
