With less than two months remaining until the commencement of the 2026 Paralympic Games in Italy, Canada’s wheelchair curling team is diligently preparing for the competition. To aid in their quest for gold, a virtual reality program developed in Alberta is being utilized.
Jennifer Dornstauder, the engineering technical lead of the project, highlighted the unique aspect of the program designed specifically for seated users, allowing them to visualize their bodies in the virtual simulation. This innovation was developed at Red Deer Polytechnic in late 2025.
The virtual reality program eliminates constraints related to training environments, travel, and physical limitations, enabling athletes to focus solely on tactics and strategy. Canada’s wheelchair curling team has consistently secured podium finishes at every Paralympics, showcasing their commitment to embracing innovation.
Dubbed as “chess on ice,” wheelchair curling requires precise strategy due to the absence of sweeping. Dana Ferguson, the mixed doubles coach, emphasized the importance of technology in enhancing their gameplay, with the VR simulator offering a new dimension to their training regimen.
The VR simulation replicates the competition arena, providing a familiar setting for the athletes and aiding in mental preparation. Collinda Joseph, a member of Canada’s Paralympic team, expressed the value of the VR experience in gaining spatial awareness and familiarity with the competition environment.
The use of VR in wheelchair curling reflects the sport’s culture of continuous improvement and openness to technological advancements. Athletes like Terry Fowler and Gil Dash underscore the dedication within the parasport community to explore new tools that can potentially elevate their performance.
The development of the VR technology for wheelchair curling stemmed from a collaboration between Red Deer Polytechnic and Curling Canada. The project, named “Chess On Ice,” was completed within four months, showcasing the dedication of the team in creating a tailored solution for para athletes.
Future enhancements for the VR software include features like a heat map, multiplayer mode, and a scoreboard, with the aim of not only benefiting current athletes but also attracting new participants to the sport. This technological advancement is poised to expand opportunities and provide a unique insight into the world of wheelchair curling.