At the Winter Olympic Games, a unique group of curlers serves as vital supports for their teams: the alternates. These athletes officially hold Olympic status but often remain off the ice, prepared to step in if needed.
The Role of Olympic Curling Alternates
Tyler Tardi, a 27-year-old alternate for the Canadian team led by 2014 Olympic champion Brad Jacobs, embodies the spirit of this role. He described it as a balancing act: wanting to contribute without being in the spotlight. “It’s a big goal of mine to put others ahead of myself,” Tardi remarked. He views his position as a learning opportunity from seasoned teammates who possess extensive Olympic experience.
Behind the Scenes Support
The primary duties of curling alternates include preparing the stones and helping the team maintain a competitive edge. Rich Ruohonen, the oldest Winter Olympian for the United States at age 54, highlighted the importance of understanding how the rocks behave on the ice, stating, “The rocks run a little bit differently sometimes.” He also mentioned performing various support tasks, such as:
- Caring for equipment like brooms
- Assisting teammates in their preparations
- Scouting upcoming opponents
Ruohonen enjoys mentoring the younger members of his team, providing guidance that helps them grow in a high-stress environment.
Maintaining Readiness
Even though participation in games is infrequent for alternates, maintaining a competitive mindset is crucial. Kyle Waddell, the alternate for Great Britain, shared his approach: “I make sure that I’m in the mindset that I can play.” He understands the importance of being prepared to step onto the ice without weakening the team’s performance.
This inherent readiness signals the commitment these players have to their teams. The alternates play an essential role, fostering a culture of support and strategy. Their dedication ensures that when called upon, they will not only be ready but also effective in contributing to their team’s success at the Olympics.
