From rolling onto the court in a regular wheelchair to representing Canada on the Paralympic stage, Erika Schmutz has faced every challenge of competing in a male-dominated sport—and never let it stop her.
Erika’s journey began at a Tampa Bay Lightning game, where she was introduced to wheelchair rugby by former Canadian National Team coach Joe Soares. She was instantly hooked. Back home, she launched a local club, rallied athletes, and booked a gym—all in the name of the game she loved.
“I found a sport where I could be competitive. I loved the speed, the contact, and unknowingly found a great community to be a part of,” Erika recalls.
She travelled two hours to play on an American team, pushing herself against top talent to prepare for a shot at the Canadian National Team. After years of tireless training, countless rejections, and paying her own way, she finally made the team in 2005.
Her first Paralympic experience in 2008 was a dream come true, though being the only woman on the team often felt isolating.
“It was surreal and amazing—more than you can possibly imagine,” Erika reflects.
But being a woman in a male-dominated sport wasn’t easy.
“Making the team was hard. Getting floor time was even harder. Sometimes, it doesn’t matter if you’re faster or more experienced—it just doesn’t happen,” she shares.
In 2023, Erika represented Canada at the Paris Women’s Cup, where she experienced the power of an all-female tournament.
“There’s a different energy and support among the athletes and coaches. Women play a more tactical game versus the ‘run and gun’ style of male-dominated teams,” she says.
Now, Erika is looking to the future. She dreams of creating more women’s teams, building a sense of community, and inspiring more female athletes to step onto the court. Her ultimate goal? A women’s World Championship and Paralympic division.
Paralympian, coach, community leader, Wheelchair Rugby Canada Board member, and role model, Erika can now add WWR Ambassador to the list. With her incredible experience and passion, she is now dedicated to increasing female participation globally. If you want to hear more about her mission, don’t hesitate to reach out!