Curling’s Rising Popularity in the U.S. Following Olympic and Paralympic Exposure

After a prominent showing at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina and the subsequent Paralympic Games, curling is experiencing a surge in interest across the United States. The sport, which saw record viewership during the Olympics, is drawing new participants to curling clubs nationwide.

Olympic Boost and Increased Viewership

Curling uniquely aired every day of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, capturing the attention of a broad audience. A report from USA Curling indicated that curling achieved the largest viewership of any sport during NBC’s Winter Olympic coverage. As the Paralympics commenced, wheelchair curling athletes further showcased the sport’s inclusivity and skill.

A Surge in “Learn to Curl” Events

This increased visibility has translated into a significant uptick in participation at the grassroots level. USA Curling CEO Dean Gemmell noted that member clubs have consistently reported between 300 to 600 attendees at “learn-to-curl” events and open houses in recent months. Gemmell indicated that this year’s interest appears more substantial than in previous Olympic years, potentially due to the strong performance of U.S. Teams and the extensive television coverage – totaling 30 hours of airtime for all U.S. Teams.

Growing Membership and Demographic Shifts

Preliminary data suggests that Olympic-time interest is already converting into increased membership. Several clubs have welcomed over 100 new curlers into their beginner leagues. Currently, USA Curling boasts approximately 20,000 members nationwide. The fastest-growing segment of new curlers is individuals aged 21 to 40, now comprising 38 percent of USA Curling’s membership.

Sustaining the Momentum: The Role of Local Clubs

The Olympic boost is particularly vital for smaller curling clubs. Michael Ehrlich, president of the Chesapeake Curling Club in Easton, Maryland, explained that the club relies on the periodic influx of interest following the Olympics to remain viable. Chesapeake Curling Club hosted three times more “learn to curl” sessions than in a typical year. The club is even exploring extending its season, contingent on continued participation and financial feasibility.

New Participants Inspired by the Games

The impact of the Olympics is evident in individual stories. Yana Willey shared that watching the 2026 games finally convinced her boyfriend to try the sport, leading him to sign up for club membership and purchase curling equipment. This sentiment echoes that of Stacy Bishop, media director of the Potomac Curling Club in Laurel, Maryland, who has been curling for 16 years, initially inspired by a previous Olympic season.

The Future of Curling in America

Gemmell believes the larger-than-expected surge in interest following the 2026 Olympics has the potential to reshape the future of curling in America, fostering continued growth and participation in the sport.