Wheelchair Rugby Canada has qualified for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. The Canadians officially booked their spot for the Paris Games this August after a 58-41 semifinal victory over Germany during the last-minute Paralympic Qualification Tournament in New Zealand. 

With a commendable, 4-1 record at the five-day tournament in New Zealand, Canada also triumphed over Brazil (57-39), Netherlands (55-35), and host New Zealand (54-39). Despite their stellar performance, they narrowly missed out on gold, facing a heartbreaking 49-48 overtime loss to Australia in the final match. Nonetheless, Canada’s impressive performance earned them a well-deserved silver. 

Expressing immense pride in the journey to get to the Paralympics, Head Coach Patrick Côté stated: “It was a really good week for us. Couldn’t be prouder of our team. Every game, the team came out ready, fired up and united. It was good to see Matt, Rio and Joel show up like vets and carry a lot of the load for us. They were key in our qualification. The team continues to show growth, pushing the bar higher…the next few months will be exciting.” 

 The 2024 Paralympic Qualification Tournament was the major international game debut for National Team member Joel Ewert. Ewert reflected on his experience, stating: “My first international tournament was an amazing experience. While I had some nerves at first, through leaning on my teammates and the amazing staff, I soon felt right at home. I was able to play with confidence knowing that everyone had my back!” 

 Wheelchair Rugby Canada expresses appreciation to the organizers, sponsors, and supporters whose contributions made the Paralympic Qualification Tournament in New Zealand a reality. We eagerly anticipate ongoing support as we gear up for the forthcoming Paralympics in August! #ItsOurGame 

About World Wheelchair Rugby Paralympic Qualification Tournament   

The tournament was held from March 20th to 24th, 2024, with training and classification taking place from the 18th to the 19th. The tournament took place at the new home of Wellington rugby, the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport, Trentham, Wellington.   

About Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games 

The 2024 Summer Paralympics, also known as the Paris 2024 Paralympics games, and commonly known as Paris 2024 is an upcoming international multi-sport parasports event governed by the International Paralympic Committee, to be held in Paris France from August 28th to September 8th 2024. These games mark the first time that Paris will host the Paralympics. 

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