Laurentian accessibility advisor headed to Paris 2024 Paralympics

Sudbury sport psychologist releases book 'Gifted' The leader of Laurentian University's sport psychology program talks about his book 'Gifted' and experience with Team Canada.

A Sudbury man who works for Laurentian University as an accessibility advisor is headed to Paris to compete in the 2024 Paralympics in men's boccia.

Lance Cryderman was 12 when he started playing the adapted version of the Italian bowling game bocce for people with severe locomotive disabilities of a cerebral or non-cerebral origin.

Cryderman took several years away from the sport to earn his undergraduate psychology degree and a master's degree in business administration.

Returning in 2017, he earned several national medals and won a silver medal in the 2023 Parapan American Games in Santiago, Chile.

Cryderman has cerebral palsy and competes in the BC1 category.

"The games are the culmination of a six-year journey marked by determination and dedication as he manages the rigorous demands of training and competition alongside his responsibilities at home and work," Laurentian University said of its alumnus and staff member in a news release Thursday.

"Lance dedicates 10-12 hours each week to honing his skills both on and off the court. His rigorous training regimen includes mental preparation with a sports psychologist, strategic sessions with his coach, meticulous analysis of game footage and at least eight hours of throwing time a week."

Cryderman wants to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

"He believes his journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and support in achieving goals, saying, 'If I’m able to do all this, what’s stopping you?'" the university said.

Cryderman credits his success to his support system, including his wife and colleagues.

"For any boccia player competing at the international level, the Paralympics is the pinnacle of our sport," he said.

"Preparing for it is intense but it is completely worth it and I am incredibly proud to represent Canada at the Paralympic Games."