Curling may have its roots in the frozen lochs of Scotland, but in the United States, it has found its home thanks to the dedicated efforts of the United States Curling Association (USCA). This organization has become the backbone of curling in the U.S., connecting grassroots enthusiasts to the global stage.
Origins of USCA
The USCA was officially founded in 1958, at a time when curling was gaining traction in the northern United States. Clubs from states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota—where icy winters and strong community roots helped the sport flourish—saw the need for a unified national organization. Until then, curling in the U.S. had been a scattered network of regional clubs and leagues, each operating independently.
The founding of the USCA marked a turning point. With a central governing body in place, the sport now had a structure for national championships, official rulebooks, and formalized development programs. In many ways, this was the start of curling’s journey from a niche pastime to a recognized competitive sport in the United States.
National Impact and Structure
Today, the USCA represents more than 185 curling clubs and over 23,000 players across the U.S. It acts as the governing body for the sport, overseeing national championships, youth programs, coaching certification, and club support. From Minnesota to California, the USCA helps maintain the integrity and growth of curling in every corner of the country.
The organization is responsible for:
- Organizing National Championships across various age groups and levels (juniors, seniors, mixed doubles, etc.).
- Developing youth and collegiate programs to introduce curling to younger generations.
- Training and certifying coaches and officials to maintain a consistent and safe playing environment.
- Growing the sport in non-traditional curling states through outreach and inclusivity efforts.
From beginners attending their first “Learn to Curl” session in Arizona to elite athletes vying for Olympic spots, the USCA plays a pivotal role in every stage of the journey.
International Representation
The USCA also serves as the official U.S. representative to the World Curling Federation (WCF), the global governing body of the sport. That means the USCA is responsible for selecting and preparing Team USA for international events like:
- The World Curling Championships
- The Winter Olympic Games
- The Pan Continental Curling Championships and more
One of the biggest moments in the USCA’s history came in 2018 when the U.S. Men’s Curling Team captured Olympic gold in PyeongChang. It was a groundbreaking win—not just for the athletes, but for everyone involved in curling’s slow but steady rise in the U.S. It showcased what decades of investment in development, training, and community-building can achieve.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Curling in the U.S.
The USCA isn’t standing still. In recent years, it has launched initiatives to bring curling to more diverse audiences, improve accessibility, and modernize its digital infrastructure. Whether through live-streamed matches, youth development grants, or partnerships with schools and parks departments, the association is pushing to ensure curling isn’t just a winter curiosity, but a lasting part of American sports culture.