Wally is the father of Debbie (Henry) McCormick, skip of the first women's team to win gold at the World Championships.

Curls out of: Madison Curling Club

Nickname: Wally

Curling start: Wally began curling at age 8 in an elementary school recreation program. He continued curling through high school in the recreation program and curled in recreation leagues and tournaments through young adulthood. He became interested in competitive curling when he relocated to Madison, Wis., and began competing in tournaments leading to U.S. Nationals.

In his own words: "The most satisfying personal fulfillment I have received from a lifetime filled with curling experiences is the opportunity to have watched my children grow into excellent curling athletes and respectable young adults. The game teaches humility and a respect for others. I compete with them as a teammates and coach as often as I can. It was unbelievable thrill to watch my daughter, Debbie, compete in two Winter Olympics and then win the gold medal at the 2003 Worlds in Winnipeg, Canada, our family hometown. My son, Donnie, was with us, cheering her on at every level. We have had the opportunity to make many friends throughout the curling world. I invite anyone looking for an enjoyable winter activity that offers tremendous personal achievement to try this fantastic sport."