From Courtroom to Curling Sheet: Injury Lawyer Achieves Olympic Dream
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — The 2026 Winter Olympics witnessed a remarkable story unfold – a 54-year-old personal injury lawyer and six-time “Minnesota Attorney of the Year” making Olympic history. Rich Ruohonen, from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, proved that age is just a number, stepping onto the ice during the U.S. men’s curling match against Switzerland.
With the U.S. team trailing 8-2, Ruohonen was called upon as a substitute. He delivered a precise corner guard, watching intently as his stone settled safely into position. “Yeah, baby! Good shot, Rich!” exclaimed skip Danny Casper, a generation younger at 25 years old. The crowd erupted in a standing ovation, acknowledging the historic moment.
“I would have rather done it when we were up 8-2 instead of down 8-2,” Ruohonen humbly admitted, “but I really appreciate the guys giving me a chance.” His appearance made him the oldest person to ever compete for the U.S. at the Winter Olympics.
More Than Just a Substitute: A Mentor and Team Glue
Ruohonen’s role extends far beyond simply being an alternate for Casper, who manages Guillain-Barre syndrome. He’s become a mentor and an honorary uncle to the Gen-Z team, providing support both on and off the ice. From driving them to training to ensuring they’re well-fed, Ruohonen seamlessly balances his Olympic aspirations with his demanding full-time career as an injury lawyer.
“We got Rich. Uh, he’s a lawyer. I don’t know if you guys knew that,” Casper playfully remarked at a press conference, eliciting laughter from teammates. The team frequently jokes about Ruohonen’s profession, but their affection and respect are undeniable. “If you need a lawyer, I think you can call Rich,” Casper added with a grin.
Balancing Law and Curling: A Rigorous Schedule
Ruohonen’s commitment is extraordinary. He rises at 3:00 AM three days a week, dedicating hours to workouts and training before heading to his law practice. He continues to work throughout the day, returning for evening practice. He even carries a collared shirt and tie to handle Zoom hearings while traveling to curling tournaments. Despite the demanding schedule, he cherishes the support of his wife, Sherri, and their children, Nicholas, 21, and Hannah, 24, whom he’s introduced to the sport.
A Legacy of Dedication and Teamwork
While his teammates playfully tease him, they also recognize the value he brings. Ruohonen’s experience and mentorship have been instrumental in the team’s success, helping them qualify for the Olympics by defeating older generations of curlers. He embodies a dedication to the sport that has evolved over time.
“I came from the days when guys were smoking cigarettes out on the ice and all we did was throw rocks and think that we could be better,” Ruohonen reflected, praising his teammates’ modern work ethic. “Look at these guys,” he added. “Every one of them’s ripped. And every one of them sweeps their butt off.”
Rich Ruohonen’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of mentorship, and the enduring spirit of the Olympic Games. It’s a reminder that dreams can come true at any age, even for a busy injury lawyer.
Source: AP News
