Veteran forward Greg Westlake is set to participate in his sixth Paralympic Games as the Canadian Para hockey team aims for its first Olympic gold in two decades at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics. Westlake, who recently returned from retirement, is part of the 17-player roster unveiled by Hockey Canada and the Canadian Paralympic Committee. The Winter Paralympic Games will run from March 6 to March 15, following the Olympic Games in Italy.
At 39 years old, Westlake is the sole player on the roster who was part of the Canadian team that secured gold at the 2006 Turin Paralympics. He spent two seasons as an assistant coach before deciding that the 2026 Games would mark his final Olympic appearance. Westlake expressed his sentiments, stating, “It’s a celebration for all these guys on the team. For me, it’s my sixth Games. For some guys, it’s their first.” He acknowledged the challenges he faced coming out of retirement but emphasized the importance of striving for a gold medal.
Forward Adam Dixon will be competing in his fifth Paralympics, with captain Tyler McGregor participating in his fourth. Defencemen Rob Armstrong and Tyrone Henry, alongside goalie Corbin Watson, are heading to their third Paralympic Games. Forward Liam Hickey will be at his fourth Games, transitioning to Para hockey after competing in wheelchair basketball at the 2016 Rio Games.
The United States has dominated the Para hockey scene, clinching four consecutive gold medals since Turin. Canada settled for silver in 2022 and 2018 and bronze in 2014. Despite the U.S.’s recent success, Canada managed to defeat them in the 2024 world championship finals in Calgary.
Canada’s Paralympic journey kicks off on March 7 against Slovakia, followed by matches against Japan on March 9 and Czechia on March 10. The tournament features eight countries split into two pools, with the top two teams from each pool advancing to the semifinals. The medal matches are scheduled for March 15.
The Para hockey team’s involvement in a Hockey Canada Olympic orientation camp alongside NHL players and top female athletes had a profound impact on the players. Westlake highlighted the importance of recognition and validation for Para athletes, boosting their confidence and sense of respect within the high-performance sporting community.
Hockey Canada’s ambitious goal for the Milan-Cortina Winter Games is to secure gold across men’s, women’s, and Para hockey events, emphasizing the need for collective support and unity among the teams. McGregor underlined the significance of the orientation camp in fostering camaraderie and setting the stage for a successful season.
The Canadian roster features a mix of talent across goaltenders, defensemen, and forwards, with representatives from various provinces bringing their skills to the Paralympic stage.