MCFARLAND, Wis. — U.S. Army veteran Steve Emt had always competed at a high level in sports while growing up and ended up playing basketball in college.
But at 25 years old, Emt’s life changed forever.
One night, he got behind the wheel after drinking and crashed his car. His critical injuries left him paralyzed.
Emt worked hard to recover, both physically and mentally, and became a teacher, coach and motivational speaker. Through it all, he credits one sport with saving his life. He was introduced to that sport randomly 10 years ago, after being invited to a curling club.
“This is my happy place,” Emt said, while out on the ice curling. “I think anyone you ask who has gone through all the stuff we have gone through in our lives will agree, when you find something you enjoy so much and have a passion for, you embrace it. Where you can, for a lack of better terms, ‘get away from it all’. This is our happy place.”
Within months of starting to curl, Emt earned a spot on Team USA’s wheelchair curling squad. He went on to compete in the Paralympic Games twice, has been to 10 world championships and is a 10-time national champion.
“To be able to travel the world, and meet some incredible people, and wear the red, white and blue around the world and represent the greatest country in the world is an honor and something I cherish,” Emt said. “I’m privileged to be a part of it every day. It’s a blessing that I am here. I just enjoy the journey.”
Emt’s curling teammates have similar stories of pain and triumph in getting to where they are today. His curling partner, Laura Dwyer, said being on the ice with Emt is inspiring.
“When I need that support, he’s there,” Dwyer said. “He’s a great lead for the positivity that we have as we curl and compete together.”
Right now, Emt and his teammates are working hard to qualify for the 2026 Paralympic Games in Italy. They are looking for sponsors to help them travel and support their mission on the ice.
Emt said any interested sponsors can email him at securlusa@gmail.com or visit his website here.