Canada Announces Women’s Goalball Team for Paris 2024

The Canadian Paralympic Committee and Canadian Blind Sports Association have proudly announced the selection of six exceptional athletes to represent Canada in the women’s goalball tournament at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This formidable team has demonstrated consistent performance over the years, having also competed together at the 2023 Parapan Am Games, 2022 World Championships, and 2020 Paralympic Games.

Leading the team is Amy Burk, who will be making her fifth Paralympic appearance. Burk expressed her excitement, stating, “Paris will be my fifth Games and it’s just as exciting as my first. Our team has come a long way from our disappointing ninth-place finish in Tokyo; we have worked so hard and proven we can perform on the biggest stage.”

Joining Burk is Whitney Bogart, participating in her fourth Paralympic Games, and Nancy Morin, who will be competing in her third. Rounding out the team are Emma Reinke, Meghan Mahon, and Brieann Baldock, each making their second Paralympic appearances.

The team’s journey to Paris was solidified with a gold medal at the Santiago 2023 Parapan Am Games, where they secured the sole qualification spot for the Americas. This victory came after defeating Brazil 4-2 in the semifinals and edging out the USA 4-3 in the final.

Reflecting on their achievements, Bogart said, “We have worked so hard on and off the court to earn our spot at the Games. I am honoured to have been selected to represent Canada with such an amazing group of athletes.”

Reinke added, “I am looking forward to the high performance and community environment while the team pushes for a medal finish.”

Canada’s women’s goalball team is determined to clinch their first medal in the sport since 2004. They will compete in Pool B alongside Japan (world No. 2), South Korea (No. 15), and host France (No. 18). The preliminary rounds will take place from August 29 to September 1, with elimination games starting September 3, leading up to the medal matches on September 5.

Karolina Wisniewska, co-chef de mission of the Paris 2024 Canadian Paralympic Team, expressed her excitement: “This is such an experienced, proven, and prepared team, and I know they have big goals for the Games. I can’t wait for them to take the spotlight in Paris.”

Josh Vander Vies, also co-chef de mission, highlighted the team’s dynamic presence: “Goalball is such a dynamic sport, unique to the Paralympic Games, and it will be so exciting to watch the team compete once again in Paris.”

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be held from August 28 to September 8, 2024. Canada is set to send a team of approximately 140 athletes, showcasing the nation’s dedication and talent across various sports.

As the women’s goalball team prepares for the competition, they carry the hopes and support of Canadians nationwide, aiming to bring home a historic medal.