LIVERPOOL – Children with autism will soon have the chance to try a new sport in Liverpool.
“Curling is a good fit for autistic youth,” says Jennifer Chase, head of membership with the Liverpool Curling Club. “We can work with individuals to make the sport work for them.”
Because curling is such an accessible sport, the Liverpool Curling Club reached out to Autism Nova Scotia - South Shore Chapter to see if it could introduce a few more people to the sport.
The chapter immediately showed interest, says Chase.
As a result, the Liverpool Curling Club, in conjunction with the South Shore Chapter of Autism Nova Scotia, will be holding a six-week learn to curl program starting on Jan. 27, free to any youth in the area who have a formal autism diagnosis.
Chase says when it comes to curling, the game can be slowed down if need be, making it a good option for people of all ages and abilities. For example, she says, instead of playing eight ends or rounds, players can curl for just four if participants need more time to process. Or, if there is a mobility or balance issue, Chase says players can use a stick to throw the rock instead of the standard slide delivery.
“We can also adapt the way we teach to meet the needs of the individual curler,” says Chase.
As a junior coach, Chase is really looking forward to being involved with the program and working with this group of youth.
“I love the sport and have the desire to introduce it to as many people as possible,” she says.
Families can sign up by emailing Chase at [email protected].
