Wheelchair Rugby Canada (WRC) is proud to announce the formation of its first-ever Athletes Council, comprised of esteemed members of the Canadian wheelchair rugby community. This development underscores WRC’s commitment to continuing to amplify the voices of its athletes and fostering an athlete-centric environment. 

The esteemed members of the inaugural Athletes Council are as follows: 

• Melanie Labelle 
• Joel Ewert 
• Cody Caldwell 
• Travis Murao  
• Erika Schmutz 
• Matt Debly 
• Byron Green (Chair) 

Chairing the council is Byron Green, who brings with him a wealth of experience as both an athlete representative on the WRC Board and now as the chair of the Athletes Council. Reflecting on this new venture, Byron expresses enthusiasm stating, “I am very happy to have an athlete’s council up and running. The collective wisdom of athletes on the council and all the athletes in the program will help guide the future of Wheelchair Rugby Canada.” 

The primary objective of the Wheelchair Rugby Athletes Council is to act as the collective voice of athletes within WRC. The Athletes Council (AC) aims to enrich the athlete experience by creating a safe space for athletes to bring their questions, comments, and concerns forward. The AC advocates on behalf of the athletes to ensure the athlete perspective is heard and actively considered in the WRC Board of Directors and WRC CEO decision making process. 

About Wheelchair Rugby Canada   

Wheelchair Rugby Canada is the national governing body for the Canadian Heritage Sport of wheelchair rugby. Wheelchair Rugby Canada strives to be a world leader in wheelchair rugby, a respected advocate for wheelchair athletes and a visionary organization committed to excellence in programs from recruitment to retirement.   

Media Contact   

Kevin Caswell   

Communications and Digital Media Intern   

613-371-5167   

communications@wheelchairrugby.ca