Inclusive Curling for Neurodivergent Youth

In connection with Curling Canada and Autism Edmonton, I am launching an exciting new initiative at multiple Edmonton area Curling Clubs to make curling more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for neurodivergent youth and adults. I was recently diagnosed with Autism and ADHD and that moment reshaped the way I see both my struggles and my strengths, and it made me realize just how much the game of curling has given me. Curling has been my anchor for over 25 years, teaching me confidence, teamwork, leadership, and giving me a community I deeply value. That’s why I feel such a strong responsibility to create spaces where others like me can step onto the ice and experience not only the sport, but the same sense of belonging and possibility it has given me.

I am offering participants a chance to try curling in a low cost, sensory-friendly, neuro-affirming environment with trained instructors, provided equipment, and engaging content. The feedback we received from the first drop-in session has been overwhelmingly positive and every participant said they wanted to come back for more curling.

The goal is simple:
✅ Break down barriers to entry for athletes who may otherwise feel excluded
✅ Show that curling can be a sport for all kinds of minds
✅ Build a model we can scale across Alberta and, ultimately, across Canada

Why This Matters

• 10–20% of the population is neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette's, etc.).
• Sports participation improves confidence, physical health, and community belonging, yet neurodivergent individuals are significantly underrepresented in team sports.
• Curling’s structure, strategy, and community spirit make it a natural fit for neurodivergent athletes.

By creating a welcoming entry point, we can grow the game, strengthen clubs, and show leadership in sport inclusion.

Our Vision

Phase 1 (Fall 2025):

• Host drop-in sessions for up to 40 participants each at the St. Albert Curling Club and Shamrock Curling Club
• Collect feedback, measure comfort, and refine resources for clubs.

Phase 2 (Winter/Spring 2026):

• Launch a multi-week instructed program for neurodivergent athletes.
• Train coaches and create toolkits for other curling clubs to support sensory-friendly programming.

Curling changed my life and I believe it can do the same for countless neurodivergent athletes if we open the door just a little wider. We can lead the way in showing how curling can truly be a sport for everyone.

This inclusive curling program will directly benefit neurodivergent children, teens, and adults who face significant barriers to participating in sport. Many people with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergences experience heightened sensory sensitivities, differences in communication, and challenges with traditional learning or social expectations. These obstacles often make stepping into a new sport environment intimidating or inaccessible. By offering a sensory-friendly, neuro-affirming introduction to curling, we provide participants with a safe, welcoming place to explore a sport that is highly structured, strategic, and team-oriented. The benefits include improved confidence, social connection, physical activity, and opportunities to develop teamwork and leadership skills, all in an environment that respects their needs and strengths.

The program will also benefit families and caregivers. Parents of neurodivergent children often struggle to find recreational opportunities where their kids feel genuinely included rather than simply accommodated. A dedicated program signals that their children are welcome in curling exactly as they are, reducing isolation and helping families feel more connected to their community.

In addition, this initiative supports curling clubs and coaches. By providing training, resources, and real-world experience in inclusive programming, clubs will be better equipped to welcome a broader range of participants. This helps clubs grow their membership base, strengthen community ties, and position themselves as leaders in accessibility and inclusion. Importantly, it also provides coaches with the skills to be neuro-affirming in their approach, fostering patience, creativity, and respect, qualities that improve the culture of the sport for everyone.

Finally, the program benefits the future of curling. Neurodivergent athletes often bring unique strengths such as pattern recognition, hyperfocus, and calmness under pressure. These are qualities that can enrich the game and enhance team performance. By making curling accessible to this underrepresented group, we are not only expanding participation today but also cultivating the next generation of athletes, volunteers, and fans who will sustain and grow the sport for years to come.

At its heart, this program ensures that curling lives up to its values of community, sportsmanship, and belonging, creating a win-win for athletes, clubs, and the future of our sport.