Wheelchair Rugby Canada is proud to recognize the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s investment in the continued growth and development of women’s wheelchair rugby in Canada. 

As part of the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s new Future Paralympians Grant, Wheelchair Rugby Canada has been awarded funding to support the Women’s National Development Program, helping to offset expenses associated with a Women’s Development Training Camp taking place this fall in Edmonton, AB. The camp will bring together female athletes from across the country, with the funding helping to cover critical costs such as coach travel, accommodation, and court time. 

The investment is part of $280,000 in total funding awarded by the Canadian Paralympic Committee to 22 sport organizations across Canada through the Future Paralympians and Paralympic Sport Discovery Day grants. Supported by the Paralympic Foundation of Canada, the new programs are designed to strengthen the Para sport system and create meaningful opportunities for athletes to progress along the Paralympic pathway. 

For Wheelchair Rugby Canada, this support represents an important advancement in creating more dedicated opportunities for women to develop their skills, gain competition and training experience, build confidence, and connect with coaches and mentors. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the Canadian Paralympic Committee and the Paralympic Foundation of Canada for investing in the future of women’s wheelchair rugby,” said Paul Hunter, CEO of Wheelchair Rugby Canada. “This funding allows us to support dedicated development opportunities for female athletes, helping build a stronger and more sustainable pathway from development to the national team and, ultimately, the Paralympic stage.” 

The Northern Lights Women’s Development Program is an initiative focused on creating an environment where female athletes can develop both on and off the court. Through dedicated training, competition, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, the program aims to strengthen the depth of women’s wheelchair rugby across the country and support athletes as they progress toward higher levels of competition, and advocate for the inclusion of a women’s division in the Paralympic Games.  

The Women’s Development Training Camp will provide athletes with access to quality coaching and training facilities while reducing some of the financial barriers associated with participation.  

Wheelchair Rugby Canada extends its sincere thanks to the Canadian Paralympic Committee and the Paralympic Foundation of Canada for recognizing the importance of investing in women’s Para sport development. 

Supporting the Journey to Women’s Worlds 

As the Women’s National Development Program continues to grow, the team is also preparing for a historic milestone: the first Women’s Wheelchair Rugby World Championship. 

The team is currently fundraising to help offset the costs associated with attending this landmark competition, including travel, accommodation, and other essential expenses. Every contribution helps create an opportunity for Canadian women to represent their country on the international stage and be part of this important moment in the growth of women’s wheelchair rugby. 

Support the Women’s Team and help them make history.