The American Team Casper claimed the third annual Henderson Metal Fall Classic title on Sunday, earning an 8-5 win over Italy’s Team Retornaz in a back-and-forth final that capped off four days of top-tier curling at the YNCU Curling Centre.

The win came with fifth man Rich Ruohonen stepping into the lineup in place of skip Daniel Casper, who is working his way back into competition after being diagnosed last year with Guillain–Barré syndrome, a disease that affects the nerves through the immune system.

“Danny’s had some medical issues, so I played with them all of last year,” said Ruohonen, who played the lion’s share of their games last season. “Danny’s been doing better, so I’ve just been along for the ride this year.”

When Casper couldn’t join the team in Sault Ste. Marie this weeke

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