Wheelchair Rugby Canada is proud to congratulate national team athlete Mélanie Labelle on her election to the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) Athletes’ Council.

A member of Canada’s National Team program since 2019, Labelle has become a respected leader both on and off the court. In addition to representing Canada internationally, she has been a strong advocate for the growth and development of wheelchair rugby, serving on the Wheelchair Rugby Canada Board of Directors and contributing to several organizational committees throughout her time in the sport.

A passionate champion for gender equity, Labelle has dedicated significant time and effort to the development of the Northern Lights Women’s Development Program, helping create more opportunities for women and girls in wheelchair rugby.

“I believe leadership begins with listening. It is a privilege to amplify the voices of Paralympic athletes and help shape the future of the Paralympic Movement during this pivotal time in the Canadian sport system” said Labelle.

Labelle was elected alongside Nathan Clement (para cycling), Brianna Hennessy (para canoe), Marissa Papaconstantinou (para athletics), and Colinda Joseph (wheelchair curling). She will serve a four-year term on the Athletes’ Council.

The CPC Athletes’ Council is an elected group of current and recently retired Paralympic athletes (within the past eight years) that serves as the collective voice of Canada’s Paralympic athletes. The Council advocates for athletes’ interests while providing input and recommendations to the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s staff, committees, and Board of Directors on decisions affecting the Paralympic movement in Canada.

Wheelchair Rugby Canada congratulates Mélanie on this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to the valuable perspective and leadership she will bring to the Athletes’ Council.

Photo: Melanie Butez