Sandra Marie Schmirler

Sandra Marie Schmirler was born on June 11, 1963, in Biggar, Saskatchewan, the daughter of Art and Shirley Schmirler and sister of Carol and Beverley. She received all of her elementary and high school education in Biggar and excelled in swimming, fastball, volleyball, badminton, and curling, where she developed a love for team competition. In 1981, she graduated from Biggar Composite High School and received special honours recognizing her spirit of youth, excellence as a student, and athletic ability. She graduated in 1985 from the University of Saskatchewan with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and began her career in Regina as a recreation facility manager for the City of Regina. Curling remained a huge part of her life, and she went on to achieve greatness in the sport, skipping the first Canadian women’s team to win three world titles. When curling was recognized as a full Olympic sport in 1998, she and her team became the first women’s Olympic gold medalists. In her private life, she was married to Shannon England, who shared her interests and goals, and she took greatest pride and joy in their two daughters, Sara and Jenna. She died of cancer on March 2, 2000, and left a legacy of courage and inspiration.

Saskatchewan · Canada