The Vermont State University Castleton Curling Club team recently competed at the 2025 USA Curling College National Championships, held from March 6-9 in Midland, Michigan. Sixteen teams from universities across the United States earned their spots through regional championships or by accumulating points in various competitive events. 

Founded in 2019, the team is led by head coach Dean Mooney, who has been a vital part of their success since its inception. Mooney also serves as president of the Rutland Rocks Curling Club. 

He is assisted by Michael Carona, a former player and recent graduate, who now helps with the team’s strategy and development. Libby Correia, the team’s Skip and club president, leads the team on the ice alongside her teammates: Remy Maynard (Vice), Kailey Abbott-Bishop (Second), and Emily Macias (Lead).

Each member of the team plays a unique role in ensuring smooth game play. As Vice, Maynard works closely with Correia, calling many of the shots and helping strategize during the game. The Vice is also responsible for sweeping the stones as they approach their target.

Abbott-Bishop, the Second, plays a crucial role in both strategy and execution. Positioned between the Lead and the Vice, she delivers the second set of stones and plays a key part in setting up the Skip’s shots. 

Abbott-Bishop’s precision and timing help ensure that the stones land exactly where needed for the team to stay in control of the game. 

Macias, as Lead, sets the tone for the team by delivering the first stones each end. She aims to place the stones strategically, whether it’s drawing into the house or setting up guards to protect future shots. 

After delivering her stones, Macias joins the team in sweeping to ensure the stones travel accurately and with the right speed.

The team arrived in Midland full of energy and anticipation, placed in Pool C alongside teams from the University of Minnesota, Bowdoin College, and the University of Denver. Castleton started strong, sitting second in the pool after Day 1, and remained optimistic about their potential to move on to the quarterfinals.

“Only 16 teams across the country make it to nationals, and only five of those get there by placing well in their regional championships. Since Castleton came in second at our regional championships, they earned their spot at nationals,” said Lacy Skinner, Curling Club advisor.

However, their journey began with a tough match against the University of Minnesota, where Vermont lost 3-9. 

Libby Correia reflected on this match.

“Truthfully, it was not our best weekend. Our first game was against the University of Minnesota, and although it went well overall, their shots were more consistent, which resulted in their win,” she said. 

Despite the setback, the team bounced back in dramatic fashion, securing a 10-7 win over the University of Denver, showcasing their resilience and mental toughness. 

“This was another rough game for us, but we were able to set up the game in such a way that we took the win,” she said. 

In the following round, Castleton faced Bowdoin College and was narrowly defeated 3-6, leaving them in a tight position. In the quarterfinals, the team met the United States Naval Academy and fought hard but fell short, losing 8-6. 

Correia described the emotional final moments.

“It was a very close game, and both teams played amazingly. It came down to the last rock in the last end, and the only shot we had was nearly impossible. It was a very emotional loss for Castleton as it was our last game of the season—and my last game of my collegiate career,” she said.

Though their tournament run ended early, the team’s ability to bounce back after each defeat was a testament to their determination. Their victory against Denver demonstrated their true potential, and the team’s attitude remained positive throughout the competition. 

While they did not take home the championship this year, the team gained invaluable experience from competing at nationals. The tournament gave the team insight into the level of competition they will face in the future and highlighted areas for growth.

Looking ahead to next year, the team is already planning for their return to the College Curling Nationals, which will be held in Schenectady, New York. They are also hosting Learn to Curl sessions at their local rink once they secure ice time. 

Correia encourages anyone to try the sport. 

“While it seems like a strange sport, I can confidently say that it is the most tight-knit and supportive community I’ve ever been a part of. The friendships I’ve made over the past few years are lifelong, and I am so thankful for the experience Castleton has provided with this team,” she said.

The team also expressed their gratitude for the people who supported them throughout the season. 

“A special thank you to Chris Chapdelaine, our head of club sports, and Lacy Skinner, our club advisor, for all their support and help this season,” Correia said. 

With their hearts set on an even stronger future, the team is determined to return to nationals next year, stronger and more prepared than ever.