Two-time Olympian Chris Plys, currently playing third for John Shuster, approaches the upcoming U.S. Olympic Curling Team Trials with quiet confidence. The trials will determine which team represents the United States at the December Olympic Qualification Event and subsequently at the 2026 Winter Games in Milano Cortina.
Before competing at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 or the Qualification Event in Kelowna, Canada, Plys and his team must first succeed at the U.S. Trials. This intense five-day contest features the nation's best men's and women's curling teams competing to become the national champion.
The victorious team will then face the challenging task of securing one of the last two remaining quota spots for the Olympic team events in February 2026.
At 38 years old, and having competed in Vancouver 2010 and Beijing 2022, Plys reflected on the significance of the trials during the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) summit in New York at the end of October.
"The decisive showdown brings up an array of thoughts and feelings," Plys said, sharing his palpable enthusiasm for the challenge despite recently facing an injury.
With experience on his side and a clear focus, Plys and his team are determined to rise to the occasion and secure their spot representing the United States on the Olympic stage once again.
Summary: Chris Plys, a seasoned Olympian, is focused and optimistic as he prepares for the U.S. Olympic Curling Team Trials, a crucial step toward competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics.