Four-time Paralympian Zak Madell, one of Canada’s most dynamic and influential wheelchair rugby athletes, has announced his retirement from international competition.

Over a 13-year career, Madell became a pillar of the Canadian national team, known not only for his explosive speed and scoring power but also for the leadership and selflessness he brought to the court.

Madell was introduced to wheelchair rugby in 2011 at a prospect camp, where he was noticed by the sport’s founder, Duncan Campbell. At the time, Madell was focused on wheelchair basketball and had aspirations of making the national team in that sport.

But rugby came calling quickly. Within weeks, national team staff invited him to tryouts, and not long after, he was told there was a spot waiting for him at the London 2012 Paralympic Games — if he was ready.

At just 18 years old, Madell made his Paralympic debut and helped lead Canada to a silver medal. It remains one of his most cherished career highlights.

“I didn’t realize that would be the pinnacle,” Madell said. “But looking back now, it’s a really fond memory and it was very special at the time… I think there was just so little expectation on me that I had the freedom just to go out there and do my best, and luckily some good things came out of it.”

That silver medal set the stage for an outstanding international career. Madell went on to win multiple Parapan American and world championship medals, including silver at the 2014 world championships, where he was named most valuable player of the tournament.

“He basically redefined what it means to be a high-pointer in wheelchair rugby,” said former Team Canada head coach Patrick Côté. “When Zak entered the game, it was much slower. Players like him raised the physical standard. They made the game evolve.”

But Madell’s value to Team Canada extended far beyond athleticism. He was known as a strong leader on the court, mentoring other athletes with kindness and humility.

“Zak was always interested in doing things as a team,” said teammate Joel Ewert, who played alongside Madell at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. “He really encouraged us to take advantage of the opportunity we had to travel, to explore the world, and to do it together. That’s something I’ll always remember.”

Ewert also recalled a moment that perfectly encapsulated Madell’s team-first mentality.

“We were playing Great Britain and I overthrew a pass. Zak chased it down so hard — he caught it, threw it behind his back to keep it in bounds, and nearly impaled himself on the cone. I was still trying to make the team at that point, and to see someone go all out to save me from a turnover… that stuck with me.”

On the court, Madell was more than just skilled — he was a stabilizing force who inspired other players to perform at their best.

“Zak was very calm on the court,” Ewert added. “Having that kind of safety blanket — knowing if you give the ball to Zak, you’re going to be okay — made a huge difference, especially for newer players like me.”

Though his retirement marks the end of an era for the national team, Madell’s contributions to the sport will be felt for years to come.

“On behalf of Wheelchair Rugby Canada, I want to express our deepest gratitude to Zak Madell,” said Paul Hunter, CEO of Wheelchair Rugby Canada. “Zak is truly one of the greatest to ever play our sport. For more than 13 years, he has represented Team Canada with pride, integrity and excellence. His impact has been felt both on and off the court — through his skill, leadership and commitment to the game. We thank him not only for his contributions to the national team program, but also for the lasting impression he has made on the wider community.”

As he steps away from competition, Madell is candid about why it is time.

“I felt like I wasn’t as into the game or as passionate as I once had been. So I think that’s a good sign that your time is done… It’s time to pass the torch to someone who’s hungry and ready.”

Looking ahead, Madell is focusing on accessibility advocacy in Canada. With a diploma in architectural technology, he hopes to help shape a more inclusive built environment.

“I think that’s part of why I went into architecture, I have a passion for that. In Canada we’re very fortunate that the accessibility is far ahead of a lot of other places in the world. But I still think we have a long way to go, raising awareness and spreading accessibility benefits everybody.”

Though he’s hanging up his jersey, Madell was quick to thank the many people who helped shape his wheelchair rugby career.

“Thanks to everyone who’s been a part of the journey — family, friends, teammates. I’ve missed birthdays, weddings, the births of kids. We have to be a little selfish as high-performance athletes. But now I’m looking forward to being more present for those life events”

As Canada prepares for a new chapter without its longtime star, Madell’s legacy is secure — not only as one of the sport’s greatest players but also as one of its most respected and beloved ambassadors.

“Zak is one of the best human beings I’ve met in my life,” Côté said. “He has always cared deeply about his teammates and everyone around him. He’s a phenomenal athlete — but an even better person.”