Chris Plys Prepares for U.S. Olympic Curling Team Trials
Two-time Olympian Chris Plys, who plays third for John Shuster, is quietly confident as his team prepares for the U.S. Olympic Curling Team Trials. The event will determine the men's team to represent the United States at the December Olympic Qualification Event and beyond.
Road to the Olympics
Before competing at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 or the Olympic Qualification Event 2025 in Kelowna, Canada, all teams must prove themselves in the national trials. This five-day competition features the best men’s and women’s curling teams in North America, aiming to crown a champion who will pursue one of the last two quotas for the team events at the Games next February.
Chris Plys' Perspective
At 38 years old and already an Olympian from Vancouver 2010 and Beijing 2022, Plys approaches this crucial tournament with mixed emotions. At a recent United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) summit in New York, he expressed his strong enthusiasm for the challenge, despite dealing with a recent injury.
"The challenge is exciting, even with the recent injury backdrop," Plys shared, reflecting his determination to compete at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
- The U.S. Olympic Curling Team Trials will decide the men's team for the Olympic Qualification Event in December.
- The trials are a key step toward securing one of the last two spots at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Plys brings Olympic experience and resilience to this critical stage.
Chris Plys remains focused and eager, ready to lead his team through the tough trials as they aim for Olympic success.
"Before any thoughts of representing the United States come into view, first, there are the U.S. trials—a five-day-long showdown.
Author’s summary: Chris Plys approaches the U.S. Curling Team Trials with quiet confidence and enthusiasm, aiming to secure the United States' place in the 2026 Winter Olympics despite recent injury challenges.