Who is Shawn Germain? Closer look at the husband of Winter Olympics curling star Rachel Homan

As Canadian curling skip Rachel Homan writes the latest chapter of her legacy on the world stage, the interest in those closest to her is also growing, her husband Shawn Germain in particular.

Homan may grab the headlines, with Olympic results and championship pedigree, but the larger path chased by Germain through the ups and downs of high-performance sport is likely one even more familiar to fans.Even though Germain himself is not a curler, his career in pro sports and his public presence at major events through the years has afforded him a place in the Homan story. Germain humanizes Olympic success as born from life, from viral moments and from the studio of a devoted partner and father.

Shawn Germain’s background and athletic roots

Shawn Germain also has a sports history himself. He spent a few seasons playing in the ECHL before becoming a full-time supporter. Although his hockey career did not give him the worldly experience of his wife’s curling success, it imparted him with a knowledge of competition, pressure and the will to dedicate yourself to perform at the highest of levels.

He was thrust into the public eye last year during the 2018 Winter Olympics after people shared images of him in the stands during morning curling events online.

The photos - which depicted him hoisting a few celebratory bottles of beer and rooting for Homan - went viral, and soon made him an unlikely fan-favorite. Later, Germain described this moment as one filled with nerves and excitement, providing a relatable and amusing look into the pressures of being the families of Olympic contenders.

Life with Rachel Homan away from the ice

Outside of competition, Shawn Germain and Rachel Homan have a full house. The pair wed in 2016 and now reside in Alberta, raising three kids of preschool age together.

Managing elite sport and motherhood has been a cornerstone of Homan's career in this age, and as she explains, Germain's role at home has been integral to her ability to continue performing at the top tier.Homan is on the road frequently for international tournaments and championships, and Germain tends to do much of the day-to-day routine, keeping the background life stable. Whether he is in the stands, cheering at major championships, or celebrating milestones, his presence is a reflection of the partnership that has helped keep Homan’s success going.