Steve Emt, a standout competitor in the Winter Paralympics, has captured the attention of audiences with his remarkable journey from a tragic past to achieving glory in wheelchair curling. Partnering with Laura Dwyer, Emt is representing Team USA in the Games’ first-ever mixed doubles event. Their recent performance has been nothing short of impressive, with three consecutive victories in the round-robin tournament, marking the first time the United States has advanced to a medal round in wheelchair curling since the 2010 Paralympics.
After facing a setback against Korea in the semifinals, Emt and Dwyer are set to compete against Latvia in a bronze medal match today. This match holds special significance, as it presents an opportunity for the U.S. To secure its first-ever Paralympic medal in wheelchair curling. Beyond their athletic prowess, Emt and Dwyer have showcased exceptional teamwork and camaraderie on the ice, with Emt’s commanding voice resonating as he encourages his partner and directs the curling stones with commands like “curl!” and “sit!”
At 56 years old, Emt is a seasoned athlete, but his path to the Paralympics has been unconventional. A ten-time national champion and three-time Paralympian, he is the most decorated Paralympic curler in U.S. History. Despite his achievements, Emt’s journey began only a decade ago when he was approached by a stranger in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. This encounter changed the course of his life.
A Life Altered
In 2013, while enjoying a day out, Emt was approached by a man who recognized his potential. The stranger, a coach with the Paralympic rowing team, suggested that Emt could become an Olympian in a year, given his athletic build. Intrigued by the prospect of competing at such a high level, Emt researched curling and returned two weeks later to throw his first stone. The sport quickly captivated him, leading to regular weekend training sessions with the coach, Tony Colacchio.
Emt made the U.S. Wheelchair curling team in 2014, and by 2018, he was competing in his first Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang, just five years after that life-changing encounter. Emt has remarked on how curling has not only reignited his competitive spirit but has also allowed him to connect with others and find purpose after a life-altering car accident.
Overcoming Adversity
Before his journey into curling, Emt was a talented athlete who excelled in various sports, including basketball, soccer, and baseball. He was a cadet at West Point and a walk-on at the University of Connecticut’s basketball team. However, his life took a tragic turn at the age of 25 when a drunk driving incident left him paralyzed from the waist down. For years, Emt struggled with the stigma of his past, often fabricating stories about the accident to avoid admitting his mistake.
It wasn’t until a newspaper reporter encouraged him to share his truth that Emt began to accept his past. He now openly discusses his experience, using it as a platform for motivational speaking. Emt travels to over 100 schools annually, sharing his story and encouraging young people to embrace kindness and support one another. He advises students to reach out to those who may feel isolated, emphasizing that a simple act of kindness can significantly impact someone’s day or even their life.
Looking Ahead
As Emt continues to compete in the 2026 Paralympics, he’s already setting his sights on future challenges. He hopes to participate in the 2034 Games in Salt Lake City, humorously stating, “I’m going to be like 90 years old competing at the Paralympics.” His journey from a troubled past to a celebrated athlete and motivational speaker exemplifies resilience and the potential for redemption.
Emt’s story serves as an inspiration, showcasing how sports can provide a transformative outlet for individuals facing adversity. As he prepares for the bronze medal match, fans and supporters are eager to see if Team USA can achieve a historic medal in wheelchair curling.
For more updates and to support Steve Emt and Laura Dwyer, follow their progress as they aim for victory in the upcoming match.
