Sarah Fenson showcased her curling prowess at the 2026 Mixed Doubles National Championship, held at the Bemidji Curling Club. Partnering with Andrew Stopera, Fenson entered the competition as the top seed and completed the preliminary rounds with an impressive record of 6-0, securing a semifinal spot scheduled for Sunday morning.
Fenson, who married into the renowned Fenson curling family just six months ago, is still adjusting to her new last name. Her father-in-law, Pete Fenson, is a former Olympian who led the U.S. men’s curling team to a bronze medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. The family legacy is palpable at the curling club, marked by the Olympic banners that inspire her.
Despite feeling like an outsider at times, Fenson is quickly proving her mettle on the ice. “It doesn’t even feel like my last name yet, but I’m getting used to it,” she remarked. Her performance has drawn significant support from her family, including her twin sister, Taylor Anderson-Heide, who is also preparing for her own Olympic journey.
A Family of Curling Enthusiasts
Fenson’s curling journey began in Philadelphia, where she was raised in a family deeply passionate about the sport. Her parents, both Canadian, instilled a love for curling in all four of their daughters. Seeking to elevate her game, she relocated to Minneapolis, where year-round training facilities are available.
It was in Minneapolis that she met Stopera, a fellow curling enthusiast and the son of Bill Stopera. Their shared commitment to the sport made their partnership a natural fit. “It’s nice to have married into a family that gets it and understands curling,” Fenson noted, celebrating the shared passion between her family and the Fensons.
During the holiday season, the family engaged in casual curling sessions, where Sarah benefited from Pete’s extensive knowledge of the game. Their family business, Dave’s Pizza, sponsored her mixed doubles team, providing them with custom uniforms for the championship.
Aiming for Gold
Stopera’s journey also reflects a dedication to the sport. Previously a finalist in the Mixed Doubles Nationals for three consecutive years from 2021 to 2023, he is eager to convert his near-misses into a championship victory this time. His father, Bill, recently won the 2026 Senior Men’s National Championship, securing a trip to Switzerland for the upcoming world championship. Stopera hopes to join him, creating a family celebration if successful.
As the competition heats up, Fenson and Stopera remain focused on their immediate challenge. They anticipate tough matches ahead, particularly against teams like Kawleski/Kauffman and Moores/Wheeler, both of whom have also performed well throughout the tournament.
Even with sub-zero temperatures outside, the atmosphere in Bemidji has been welcoming, with a strong community presence supporting the event. “It’s awesome to be in a community that loves the sport,” Fenson said, acknowledging the enthusiasm of the volunteers and fans that make the championship memorable.
As the semifinals approach, both Fenson and Stopera are determined to continue their winning streak and make their mark in the curling world. With the support of their families and the legacy of the Fenson name behind them, they are poised for success at the Mixed Doubles Nationals.
