Steve Emt: The US Paralympian Charming Viewers With His Curling Calls

Anyone watching the Winter Paralympics may have noticed Steve Emt, representing Team USA in the Games’ inaugural mixed doubles wheelchair curling event alongside Laura Dwyer. Their performance has been remarkable, securing three consecutive wins in the round-robin tournament and qualifying the U.S. For a medal round for the first time since 2010. This achievement is particularly poignant given Emt’s personal journey, one marked by both athletic promise and a devastating turning point.

Emt’s story is not simply about athletic redemption, but a testament to the power of second chances and the transformative potential of sport. It’s a narrative that begins with early athletic success, is fractured by a tragic mistake, and ultimately rebuilt through dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to share his experiences with others. He’s now competing in his third Paralympics, and remarkably, is already considering a bid for the 2034 Games in Salt Lake City.

From Basketball Dreams to a Life-Altering Crash

Before finding his calling on the ice, Emt was a multi-sport athlete in high school, excelling in basketball, soccer, and baseball. His athletic pursuits led him to West Point, and later, as a walk-on player, to the University of Connecticut (UConn) under Hall of Fame coach Jim Calhoun. However, his life took a dramatic turn at the age of 25 when a drunk driving accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. For a long time, Emt concealed the truth about the accident, telling others a deer had caused the crash, fearing judgment and the loss of his identity as an athlete.

It was only after encouragement from a newspaper reporter that he decided to arrive clean, a decision he describes as crucial to his healing process. He acknowledges the weight of his past, openly identifying as a “drunk driver” and using his story as a cautionary tale in his work as a motivational speaker. He now delivers over 100 presentations annually, sharing his experiences with young people across the country.

Discovering Wheelchair Curling and a New Purpose

Emt’s introduction to wheelchair curling was serendipitous. In 2013, while on Cape Cod, he was approached by a coach recruiting athletes for the Paralympic rowing team. Impressed by his physical build, the coach suggested he might excel in curling, a sport Emt had never even heard of. Initially unsure, Emt researched the sport and, intrigued, began training with the coach, Tony Colacchio. He quickly found a new passion and a renewed sense of purpose.

He made the U.S. Wheelchair curling team in 2014 and competed in his first world championship in 2015. His Paralympic debut came at the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, followed by participation in the 2022 Beijing Games, where the team achieved a fifth-place finish. Emt’s dedication and skill have made him the most decorated Paralympic curler in U.S. History, a ten-time national champion and a three-time Paralympian.

The Unique Demands of Mixed Doubles Curling

This year’s Paralympics mark a significant milestone for wheelchair curling with the introduction of the mixed doubles event. Emt and Dwyer’s success in this new format is particularly noteworthy. Their strategic teamwork and Emt’s vocal encouragement on the ice – his booming commands of “curl!” and “sit!” have even garnered attention online – have been key to their success. After a semifinal loss to Korea, they will compete for the bronze medal against Latvia, with the opportunity to secure the first Paralympic medal in wheelchair curling for the United States.

Beyond the Ice: A Message of Hope and Responsibility

Emt’s journey extends beyond athletic achievement. He emphasizes the importance of community and connection, encouraging people to reach out to those who may be struggling. He believes that simple acts of kindness can have a profound impact, and he uses his platform to advocate for responsible choices and to offer hope to those facing adversity. He describes curling as a sport that has “mellowed” him, fostering a sense of camaraderie and appreciation for the present moment.

Emt’s story serves as a powerful reminder that even after facing unimaginable challenges, it is possible to rebuild a life filled with purpose and meaning. His dedication to both athletic excellence and community service makes him an inspiring figure, not only within the Paralympic movement but for anyone seeking to overcome obstacles and make a positive impact on the world.

As Emt looks ahead to future competitions, including the possibility of competing in the 2034 Paralympics, his message remains clear: embrace second chances, prioritize connection, and never underestimate the power of the human spirit.