Moa Dryburgh, a promising young athlete from Sweden, represents a remarkable legacy in the sport of curling. Hailing from Stockholm, this 19-year-old is immersed in a familial curling tradition, with both her parents significantly involved in the sport. Margaretha and James Dryburgh met during their participation in the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan—a pivotal moment that also saw Margaretha capture an Olympic bronze medal, contributing to her accolades as a two-time world champion and European champion. Her father, James, originally from Scotland, has his own impressive history, having won the European title and several junior world titles. Growing up in such an environment, it was par for the course for Moa to pursue curling.
Recognizing the advantages of being raised in a sports-oriented family, Moa fondly reflected on her upbringing, describing it as “really cool.” Her family’s enthusiasm, particularly for curling, influenced her path and cultivated her passion for the sport. After her remarkable 12-3 victory against the USA during the Torino 2025 FISU World University Games on January 18, she shared her journey. Moa mentioned that she began serious training when she was around ten years old, having initially enjoyed curling casually at the rink with her family. Now, as a psychology student at The Swedish School of Sport and Health, she dedicates herself to the sport that has etched her family’s history.
While curling holds a special place for Moa, she had varied interests in her youth, including playing football and dancing. However, as her commitment to curling intensified, she found it challenging to balance these activities with her rigorous training. This focus has already paid off, as she proudly holds a silver medal from the 2022 World Junior Championships, making her one of the youngest skips to earn a medal at such a prestigious event.
Though her parents’ stellar achievements in curling are impressive, Moa asserts that her decision to engage in the sport was independently hers. While her parents encouraged her to pursue her passions broadly—underscoring that she shouldn’t feel obligated to follow in their footsteps—it was clear that curling captured her heart. “No, I want to do this, just stop saying that,” she remarked, expressing her drive and determination. Her mother, Margaretha, shared insights into their family philosophy, emphasizing that the tradition of curling was essential, but ultimately, it was crucial for each child to choose their competitive path.
Complicating this familial dynamic is the mixture of coaching and parenting. Margaretha, who has coached the Swedish women’s team, highlighted the complexities and benefits of being a parent-coach. Her familiarity with the team, built over eight years, allows her to connect deeply with the players. Moa also openly acknowledged the unique situation of having her mother as a coach, noting that it functions well despite the occasional challenges that arise in separating personal and professional discussions. They make an effort to refrain from discussing curling outside of practice, although Margaretha humorously admitted that this plan is often unsuccessful.
Being a part of the curling world as both a player and a parent brings Margaretha immense joy. She relishes the idea that her daughter can enjoy the same experiences and camaraderie she did in the sport, fostering a sense of community and tradition that has been integral to her own life. Meanwhile, James plays a supportive role, acting as a technique coach during practice while cheering from the sidelines during competitions—a reminder of the collaborative spirit that thrives within the Dryburgh family.
As the FISU World University Games continue, Moa and her teammates remain focused on their aspirations, currently tied for fourth place alongside teams from China and Norway. With several matches remaining before the medal rounds, her sights are set firmly on reaching the podium. Moa embodies a balance of ambition, skill, and legacy in a sport that has been a cornerstone of her family, promising an exciting future not just for her but also for the curling world at large.
Furthermore, the FISU Young Reporters Programme stands as a testament to FISU’s dedication to nurturing young talent in sports journalism, amplifying voices like Nejc Molan’s, who reported on Moa’s inspiring journey. It seeks to blend sports with storytelling, encapsulating the experiences of athletes and fostering a deeper appreciation for their endeavors.
