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.
Making History: Competing Internationally in 2025
This November, Canada’s Women’s Development Team will travel 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.”
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
- Next Stop: Competing at RugbyMania, Prague, Czechia
- Historic Milestone: First national women’s team to compete in a coed international division
- Current Challenge: Program is actively seeking funding to support participation
Looking Ahead: 2026 Goals
- Continued leadership in pushing for a women’s division at the Paralympic Games
- Women’s World Cup in Paris 2026
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
