Olympic athletes often face financial challenges, and their stories shed light on this reality. Team USA’s mixed doubles curling team is a prime example, as they juggle their Olympic ambitions with full-time employment while preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
In Duluth, Minnesota, Olympic curler Korey Dropkin navigates the demands of two full-time careers. “I have two full-time jobs,” Dropkin shares, “one is curling, and the other is working as a realtor.” He emphasizes the necessity of relocating to Duluth to chase his Olympic dreams, stating, “If I want to pursue my dreams, I need to live in Duluth.”
Dropkin’s partner, Cory Thiesse, a Duluth native, began curling at the tender age of eight, inspired by her parents who were also curlers. Thiesse balances her passion for curling with her role at a company that specializes in mercury testing for wastewater. This job offers the flexibility she needs to compete on the curling ice.
“I feel grateful that I have a job that pays the bills while I go compete in curling,” Thiesse remarks, highlighting the delicate balance between work and sport that she and many Olympic athletes must maintain.
His mixed doubles partner, Duluth native Cory Thiesse, began curling at age 8, following her parents, both curlers. Thiesse works for a company that conducts mercury testing in wastewater. She said the job allows her the flexibility to compete.
“I feel grateful that I have a job that pays the bills while I go compete in curling,” Thiesse said.
Both athletes said they have worked toward the Olympic stage since childhood.
“This is what we’ve been dreaming of since we were little kids,” Thiesse said.
Dropkin called the qualification experience something he had “been dreaming about for 20 years,” adding that playing for Olympic gold will be “such a cool opportunity.”
Dropkin and Thiesse will compete in the mixed doubles competition beginning Feb. 4.
