Curls out of: St. Paul, Minn.

When I first started curling: "I grew up in Medford, Wis. Fortunately for me there was a curling club in Medford, and the game is popular there. But, as with most curlers, the main reason I started was because of my parents. They are both still involved with the game. People still tell me stories about seeing me at the curling club in Medford from as young as 6 months old."

What I most enjoy about curling: "The people you meet and compete against in curling are what I enjoy most. There is no other sport where both teams try as hard as they can to win while they are on the ice, and then get together socially after the game is over. I think this type of "fraternity" among players is what makes the game so great."

Other family members who curl: "Both of my parents have curled as long as I can remember. They both manage to play in several bonspiels each year. My mother is very involved with the USCA, and my father makes it to as many of our games at 'spiels as he can."

Other favorite sports: "Golf is the main sport I play when I'm not curling. The season alternates well with curling, and the mental side of golf has a lot in common with curling. I also like to watch and play all kinds of other sports."

Training regimen: "I go to the gym several times each week. The goals of the workouts are to build overall strength and endurance, so I don't get tired during a three-game day. Also, if you've seen me play, you know I need to work on my flexibility."

Curling strengths: "I think my overall competitiveness is the biggest thing I bring to the table. This helps me focus during big games, and especially on crucial shots during those games. I also feel my memory and awareness of the situations on the ice help us pick up on changes in ice conditions and potential weaknesses on the other team that could give our team an advantage."

Nickname: "Schrades"