Women’s Development Program

Wheelchair Rugby Canada is proud to support the Women’s Development Program, and the trailblazing women who are paving the way for gender equity in the sport.  The program is led by an incredible group of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about advancing opportunities for women in wheelchair rugby.

Women’s Development Program

Making History: Competing Internationally in 2025

In November 2025, Canada’s Women’s Development Team travelled to Prague, Czechia, to compete at the RugbyMania tournament — becoming the first women’s team to participate in an international mixed-gender wheelchair rugby competition.

“Canada sending a women’s team to the Wheelchair Rugby Mania tournament in Prague, Czech Republic, is truly groundbreaking. While some teams have previously fielded all-women lineups during tournaments, and women-only competitions have taken place in recent years, this marks the first time in over 45 years of wheelchair rugby history that a women’s team will compete in an international mixed-gender tournament.

These athletes are true trailblazers, paving the way for gender equity in the sport on a global scale.

While there is still significant work ahead to establish a women’s division in the Paralympics, this moment brings us one step closer to that goal. Every member of this team is making history and will inspire future generations of girls and women to be part of this incredible journey.

World Wheelchair Rugby is proud to support and remain committed to advancing gender equity in our sport.”

Kathy Newman

Chair, World Wheelchair Rugby Women’s Task Team, Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame Inductee

The Vision

Lifting Women into the Spotlight.
The Women’s Development Program exists to grow the game, build community, and pave the path to a women’s division at the Paralympic Games.


Program Highlights


Before 2023

  • Women registered individually for the Paris Women’s Cup

2023 Season

  • International Debut: Canada’s first fully funded women’s team competed at the Paris Women’s Cup

  • Program Launch: The Women’s Development Program officially formed

  • Achievements:
    Women’s Symposium hosted in Vancouver, BC
    Women’s Game Playbook developed
    2 Training Camps held
    2 Competitions attended
    Gold Medal – Vancouver Invitational (Division 2)
    3 Coaches supporting program growth
    1 Program Grant secured

2024–2025 Season

  •  Competing at RugbyMania, Prague, Czechia

  • Historic Milestone: First national women’s team to compete in a coed international division

Looking Ahead: 2026 Goals



RugbyMania 2025

Ahead of the event, the women’s development program unveiled their official team name: “Northern Lights”, along with their own branding. Along with the launch of the branding, the program announced a donation campaign to help fund their journey to Prague, raising over $20,000.

 

The following 10 athletes represented this historic team in Prague: 

  • Ellen Doria – New Brunsick

  • Cory Harrower – Saskatchewan

  • Natasha Smids – Ontario

  • Jessica Kruger – British Columbia

  • Kim Payzant – Alberta

  • Erika Schmutz – Ontario

  • Tiana Hesmert – British Columbia

  • Kasey Aiello – Alberta

  • Sophie Forest – Quebec

  • Kristen Cameron – Prince Edward Island

Supporting the athletes were a dedicated team of volunteer coaches and support staff:

  • Pico Dagenais – Coach

  • Travis Murao – Coach

  • Sally Chamberlain – Support Staff

  • Tanya Crowe – Support Staff

  • Ian Mayberry – Equipment Manager

The Northern Lights finished the tournament in 8th place, and player Cory Harrower of Saskatchewan was recognized as the top 3.0 player in Division 2.

“Our time in Prague proved to be incredibly valuable for both the program and the players involved. The level of competition challenged us, but it also provided a clear understanding of the areas we need to improve to achieve long-term success” said program Head Coach and four-time Paralympian, Patrice Dagenias. “We’re hopeful that we’ll continue to have opportunities like this to train and compete together, allowing us to grow and progress as a team”.

 

Get Involved

This movement is growing — and you can be part of it.
Whether you’re an athlete, coach, volunteer, donor, or fan, your support makes a difference. Help us empower the next generation of women in wheelchair rugby.

Interested in supporting the program or learning more?
changethegame@wheelchairrugby.ca or Donate Now