Paralympic Curler Dennis Thiessen Retires After Two Decades
December 18, 2025 – Three-time Paralympic medallist Dennis Thiessen has concluded a remarkable 20-year wheelchair curling career that began with a simple mistake and evolved into a journey representing Canada on the world’s biggest stage.
An Unconventional Start
Thiessen’s introduction to wheelchair curling in 2005 was less than smooth. Not living in the city at the time, he stopped at a curling store to purchase equipment he thought he’d need—including a broom and curling shoes.
“My friend looked at me and said, ‘What’s with the broom? I’m the skip,'” Thiessen recalled. “Then he handed me a stick instead.”
Despite an inauspicious debut at Nationals where his team failed to win a single game, Thiessen refused to quit. Instead, he sought out proper coaching and began the steady climb that would eventually lead him to the Paralympic podium.
The Road to Team Canada
The turning point came through an unexpected connection. Through his daughter’s curling activities, Thiessen met coach Rob Lamb, who recognized potential in the aspiring athlete. Lamb’s mentorship opened doors, eventually connecting Thiessen with Wendy Morgan, then the Wheelchair Curling Program Director, who offered him a spot on Team Canada.
“I didn’t believe her,” Thiessen said of Morgan’s invitation. The moment he opened his first Team Canada package brought him to tears—a memory he describes as incredibly special and unforgettable.
His dedication intensified immediately, with Thiessen hitting the ice at least four times weekly as he prepared to represent his country.
Sochi 2014: A Career-Defining Moment
The Sochi 2014 Winter Paralympics marked Thiessen’s first appearance on the Paralympic stage and remains the highlight of his career. The experience of competing alongside lifelong teammates while Canadian supporters filled the stands created memories he’ll treasure forever.
“When we got to Sochi and into our rooms, there was a big suitcase at the foot of each of our beds,” he remembered. “It was like Christmas—ten times better.”
A Sport Transformed
During Thiessen’s two decades in wheelchair curling, the sport underwent significant evolution. Equipment improvements, refined strategy, and increasingly fierce international competition have all shaped the modern game. Throughout these changes, Thiessen remained a constant presence, earning respect from fans and competitors alike.
He frequently acknowledges the coaches who helped him succeed, including Rob Lamb, Ron Westcott, and National Program Head Coach Mick Lizmore, crediting them for advancing both his career and the sport itself.
A Final Bow in London
Thiessen’s final competitive appearance came at the inaugural Canadian Wheelchair Curling Invitational in London, Ontario, held alongside the Grand Slam of Curling’s AMJ Masters finals in September. After Team Canada White claimed bronze, the crowd spontaneously broke into O Canada—even as gold-medal able-bodied matches continued on adjacent sheets.
The spontaneous tribute perfectly encapsulated Thiessen’s impact on Canadian curling and the deep connection he forged with fans throughout his career.
Looking Ahead
Though Thiessen won’t compete at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Games, his support for Team Canada remains unwavering. He plans to adjust his sleep schedule to Italy time to watch every moment of competition.
“Well, basically for the last 20 years, it’s been my life,” Thiessen reflected. “So, to just walk away from it is not easy.”
True to his character, Thiessen’s thoughts turn to others. He aimed throughout his career to remain modest and be the strongest supporter possible for his teammates—to be there for those who stood by him through triumphs and challenges alike.
He expressed gratitude to his wife, Helene, and his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey.
As Thiessen transitions into retirement, his legacy as a symbol of perseverance, dedication, and love for wheelchair curling will continue to inspire future generations of Canadian athletes.
