Nicole Joraanstad Aiming to Return to Olympics

ASTON, PA. — Nicole Joraanstad, daughter of Central residents Gary and Debra Joraanstad, and her teammates, won the U.S. Women’s Curling Nationals held in Aston, PA., Feb. 11 to 18.

Nicole plays third on the team.  According to skip Allison Pottinger, Joraanstad’s contributions were critical as she executed a double-takeout in the seventh end that allowed Pottinger to draw for a second point.  Joraanstad cleared the house in the 9th end, limiting Potter to two points and preserving the lead.  Her well-placed freeze in the final end provided enough protection to ensure the win.

This is Joraanstad’s ninth nationals including two junior nationals  Joraanstad also played in the 2010 Winter Olympics and World Championships in 2000-2002, 2004, and 2006-2009.

As U.S. champions, the team will compete in Lethbridge, Alberta for the World Women’s Curling Championship March 17 through 25.  They have qualified for the 2014 Olympic Trials that will be held in Fargo, ND, November 2013.