David Willsie
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David Willsie

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David Willsie became a quadriplegic after he was injured in a recreational hockey game in 1995. His experience as a semi-pro baseball player and cross-country runner gave him...

  • Birth DateMarch 28, 1968
  • HometownDorchester, ON
  • Classification2.0
  • Member Since1998
  • Retired2016
David Willsie

Biography

David Willsie became a quadriplegic after he was injured in a recreational hockey game in 1995. His experience as a semi-pro baseball player and cross-country runner gave him an advantage in wheelchair rugby, and he made the National Team in 1998. Willsie served as the National Team’s co-captain from 2002-2012.

Off the court, Willsie has become a public face for the sport. He was featured in the Academy Award-nominated documentary “Murderball” and has appeared on such programs as the Rick Mercer Report. He is also a mentor to up-and-coming athletes and the player-coach on the Ontario Thunder.

Dave Willsie continues to leave his mark on the game, now serving as the Assistant Coach on Canada’s National Team.

Career Highlights

  • 2016 Rio Paralympic Games 4th
  • 2015 Parapan American Games Gold Medal
  • 2014 World Championships Silver Medal
  • 2012 London Paralympic Games Silver Medal
  • 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games Bronze Medal
  • 2006 World Championships Bronze Medal
  • 2004 Athens Paralympic Games Silver Medal
  • 2002 World Championships Gold Medal
  • 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games 4th
  • 1998 World Championships Bronze Medal

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