Final national title included Angela Romei
Italy’s premiere women’s curling squad, wracked by a coaching lineup scandal just days before their hometown Olympic Winter Games, has announced a team split.
“After years of dedication, growth, and unforgettable moments, our team has reached incredible milestones – including the peak of Italian women's curling and the title of (runner-up) European Champions,” posted Team Constantini.
“Looking back, we are deeply grateful for the journey we've shared: every challenge, every victory, and every moment together has made this experience truly unique and unforgettable.
“Now, it's time for a new chapter. The team will go (our) separate ways and pursue new paths.”
The last trophy – with Romei (third from left)Stefania Constantini, who won Olympic medals in mixed doubles at the past two Winter Games, played the last quadrennial with teammates Elena Mathis, Marta Lo Deserto, Giulia Zardini Lacedelli and Angela Romei.
Romei, a great friend of Constantini, was dismissed from the team shortly before the start of February’s Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Constantini’s hometown, and replaced with the daughter of the national coach who made the decision.
Constantini dedicated her mixed doubles bronze medal to Romei, who was in the arena during the Games as a TV analyst for state broadcaster RAI.
At various times throughout the mixed doubles and women’s fours competition, Constantini was seen saluting Romei.
Just prior to to April’s Rock League debut, the team won their final Italian women’s title – with Romei back in the lineup.
The team also finished fourth at a women’s world championship, and qualified for the playoffs five times in 12 Grand Slam of Curling tournaments.