Veteran forward Greg Westlake is set to participate in his sixth Paralympic Games as Canada’s Para hockey team aims to secure its first Olympic gold medal in two decades at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics. Westlake, who recently returned from retirement, is one of the experienced Paralympians included in the 17-player roster unveiled by Hockey Canada and the Canadian Paralympic Committee. The Paralympic Games are scheduled to kick off on March 6 and conclude on 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 clinched gold at the 2006 Turin Paralympics. Having served as an assistant coach for Canada for two seasons, Westlake made the decision last year to make the 2026 Paralympics his final Olympic appearance.
Expressing his thoughts at Hockey Canada’s headquarters in Calgary, Westlake emphasized the significance of the event for both himself and his teammates. He highlighted the challenges he faced during his return from retirement, underscoring the dedication and sacrifices made in pursuit of the elusive gold medal.
Forward Adam Dixon will be competing in his fifth Paralympics, while captain Tyler McGregor is gearing up for his fourth appearance. Defencemen Rob Armstrong and Tyrone Henry, alongside goalie Corbin Watson, are heading to their third Paralympic Games.
The United States has secured four consecutive gold medals since Turin, with Canada settling for silver in 2022 and 2018 and bronze in 2014. Despite the U.S.’s dominance, Canada managed to outdo its rival in the 2024 world championship finals held in Calgary.
Canada’s journey in the Paralympics will commence on March 7 against Slovakia, followed by matches against Japan on March 9 and Czechia on March 10. The participating countries are divided into two pools, with the defending champions U.S., China, Germany, and host Italy in the other pool. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semifinals, with the medal matches scheduled for March 15.
McGregor highlighted the team’s readiness for the challenges ahead and stressed the importance of unity and resilience in the pursuit of victory. The Para hockey team’s participation in an Olympic orientation camp alongside NHL players and elite female athletes in August had a profound impact on the players, boosting their confidence and sense of recognition.
Hockey Canada’s overarching goal for the Milan-Cortina Winter Games is to achieve triple gold across men’s, women’s, and Para hockey events. McGregor emphasized the importance of collective support and camaraderie in striving for success, reflecting on the positive impact of the orientation camp in fostering unity among the teams.
The Canadian roster for the Paralympics includes a blend of experienced players and debutants across the goaltender, defenceman, and forward positions, showcasing a mix of seasoned talent and fresh faces ready to represent their country on the international stage.
