Minnesota Lawyer Rich Ruohonen, 54, Joins US Men’s Olympic Curling Team

Rich Ruohonen, a 54-year-old personal injury lawyer from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, has made history by joining the U.S. men’s Olympic curling team. This remarkable achievement took place during a match against Switzerland at the Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

Historic Olympic Participation

On Thursday, the U.S. team was trailing 8-2 when they called a substitution. Rich Ruohonen stepped onto the ice as an alternate for skip Danny Casper, who is battling Guillain-Barre syndrome. Ruohonen executed a key corner guard shot, prompting enthusiastic cheers from his teammates and fans alike.

A Moment of Legacy

With this appearance, Ruohonen became the oldest person to compete for the U.S. in the Winter Olympics. Reflecting on the moment, he expressed a desire to contribute more effectively when the team was in a stronger position. Regardless, he was grateful for the opportunity to represent his country on such a prominent stage.

A Unique Role in the Team

• Ruohonen has developed a close bond with his younger teammates.
• He has taken on a mentor-like role, often driving them to practices and ensuring they are awake for morning training sessions.
• Despite his full-time job, he balances his law practice with intense training schedules, often working until late and attending curling events on weekends.

Commitment Alongside a Career

To maintain this dual commitment, Ruohonen starts his day early, training before heading to his law office, where he manages to handle court hearings remotely from curling events. His dedication is evident, as he juggles responsibilities as a father of two, Nicholas and Hannah, both of whom he has taught to curl.

A New Generation of Curlers

Ruohonen’s presence on the team offers a critical link to curling’s past. His experiences contribute knowledge and history to an otherwise younger team, some of whom he helped qualify for the Olympics. He admires their work ethic, contrasting it with earlier practices in the sport.

As Ruohonen embraces his Olympic journey, he symbolizes the merging of generations within curling. His story of commitment and mentorship reflects the evolving dynamics of competitive sports, where experience and youth come together for collective achievement.