Para Sport Nation
Alex Smyth spotlights upcoming para sport events in Canada and abroad, pulls back the curtain on how para sports are played and interviews para sport athletes, coaches and trainers.
Advancing Para Sport: Leadership, Governance, and Sitting Volleyball
Heidi Peters, captain of Team Canada’s sitting volleyball squad, reflects on the 2025 World Cup, sharing insights on team growth, leadership, and high-performance para sport. She discusses integrating new athletes, building team culture, and advocating for better media coverage and professionalization of para sport in Canada and internationally. Learn how athletes balance competition, mentorship, and governance while shaping the future of sitting volleyball.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in Engl...
Keely Shaw Reflects on Her Para Cycling Career
After nearly a decade representing Team Canada in para cycling, Keely Shaw is officially retiring from competition — and she’s doing it entirely on her own terms. In this honest and emotional conversation with Nathan Clement and Alex Smyth, Keely opens up about why now was the right time to step away, how she rediscovered her love for movement, and what’s next as she transitions from athlete to academic and sport researcher.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with d...
Preparing for the IFSC Para Climbing World Cup with Jeremy Ritchie
This episode of Para Sport Nation dives into the preparation and mindset of Canadian para climber Jeremy Ritchie ahead of the 2025 IFSC Para Climbing World Cup. Jeremy shares insights on his training routine, overcoming injuries, and using adaptive equipment to push his limits. He discusses the mental focus required for elite climbing, the camaraderie within the Canadian para climbing team, and the excitement of competing internationally.
Nathan and producer Jeff also reflect on the idea of a “Canadian sports team” in major professional leagues and update listeners on Canada’s para ice hockey team’s preparation for upcoming...
World Champion Nate Tucker on Training, Mindset, and Performance
In this episode, Nate Tucker, world champion para-athlete, takes us behind the scenes of elite para-athletics. From his early experiences growing up with a coordination impairment to winning the T-38 1500m World Championship, Nate reveals the mental strategies, creative training techniques, and lifestyle habits that help him stay at the top of his sport.
Listeners and viewers will hear about the challenges of balancing life, family, and professional sport, including how he prepares for races, adapts to tough conditions, and leverages support from coaches, sponsors, and his community. Nate also shares his thoughts on the evolution of...
Synchronizing Strength: The Story of Canada’s PR3 Mixed Para Rowing Team
In this episode para rower Stuart Chase opens up about the highs and lows of Canada’s 2025 World Rowing Championship campaign in Shanghai. The team—made entirely of first-time world championship athletes—faced unexpected challenges, including a prosthetic malfunction mid-race. Despite setbacks, the crew showed grit and pride in their final push against Spain.
Stu discusses lessons from the season, training on Vancouver’s west coast through the winter, and the importance of finding rhythm both on and off the water. He shares his introduction to rowing after transitioning from para canoe kayak, his first international medal at the H...
The Legacy of Paralympic Curling Champion Dennis Thiessen
After more than two decades in wheelchair curling, Dennis Thiessen opens up about what it feels like to step away from competition. Speaking with Nathan, Thiessen shares powerful memories from the Paralympic Games in Sochi, PyeongChang, and Beijing, his emotional final tournament, and the teammates and rivals who shaped his journey.
He also reflects on how wheelchair curling has evolved — from homemade delivery sticks to world-class adaptive equipment — and what it means to represent Team Canada at the highest level. With honesty and warmth, Thiessen talks about family, mentorship, pride, and the legacy he hopes to leave for...
Para Cycling Comeback: Michael Sametz on Recovery, Training, and Discipline
Michael Sametz shares his journey from a horrible leg injury just before the Paris Paralympics to a triumphant return on the international cycling stage. He details the emergency surgery, rigorous rehabilitation, and disciplined training that allowed him to return stronger than ever. Michael also reflects on the challenges and excitement of the Belgium World Championships, highlighting the course, competitive dynamics in C3 para-cycling, and the growth of the sport toward higher professionalism and aerodynamics-focused strategies.
Beyond racing, Michael discusses his role on the board of Athletes Can, the Canadian organization representing national team athletes, including the upcoming 2025...
Danielle Dorris Reflects on the 2025 Worlds and Team Canada’s Rise
Fresh off the 2025 World Para Swimming Championships, Danielle Dorris chats with Nathan to break down her latest achievements in Singapore. She opens up about setting a new championship record in the 50m butterfly, her silver medal in the 100m backstroke, and how she balances personal expectations with the pressure of international competition.
The conversation highlights Danielle’s long-standing partnership with coach Ryan Allen, offering a rare look at the trust and bond that has carried her career from age 12 to becoming a world champion. Danielle also reflects on the team’s successful training camp in Phuket, the stre...
Inside the Fast-Growing Adaptive Sport of Showdown
This conversation dives into the world of Showdown—a tactile, sound-based sport where athletes compete on a table using wooden paddles, a ball filled with bearings, and blackout eye shades for an even playing field.
Jerri Mather and Millie Britton from the Sheffield Strikers share how they discovered the game through their local blind centre and how it helped them navigate vision loss, build confidence, and connect with others.
They explain equipment essentials like gloves, bats, and eye shields, describe the UK’s emerging Showdown scene, and talk about training sessions that balance fun and high...
Staying in the Lane: How Brianna Hennessy Fought for Silver at Worlds
Brianna Hennessy shares the intense highs and lows of elite sport—from the pride of representing Canada to the frustration of a world-title race disrupted by a critical equipment mishap. In this candid conversation with Nathan and Alex, she details how a loose foam block and strong crosswind nearly disqualified her mid-race, yet she still powered to silver.
Brianna opens up about the mental battle of staying focused when her boat threatened to drift, how lessons from her boxing background helped her adapt on the fly, and why this setback fuels her determination to win gold in Lo...
Liam Hickey & Dom Cozzolino Prep for 2026 Paralympics
Canada’s para ice hockey program is zeroed in on the 2026 Winter Paralympics, and this episode gives an inside look at the drive, talent, and personalities fueling that pursuit. Alex sits down with stars Liam Hickey and Dominic Cozzolino during the CPC Media Summit to reflect on the lessons from their 2024 World Championship win, the impact of the team’s evolving coaching staff, and the mental and physical preparation needed to chase gold in Milano-Cortina.
Alex and Nathan also analyze the Enhanced Games, a new Las Vegas event where competitors can use performance-enhancing substances under medical supervision for...
How Trinity Lowthian Became Canada’s Top Paralympic Fencer
On this episode of Para Sport Nation Paralympian Trinity Lowthian recounts how a love of niche sports led her to wheelchair fencing and a record-breaking result for Canada at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. She reflects on a quiet but rewarding competitive season, including a bronze medal at the Brazil World Cup and a top 10 finish at the 2025 World Championships in South Korea.
Trinity explains the challenges of training as the only athlete in her classification in Canada, the excitement of fencing inside Paris’s Grand Palais, and the methodical approach that connects her athletic, academic, and coaching pursuits.
...2025 Para-Cycling World Champ Alex Hayward
Alex Hayward shares his journey leading up to his first World Championship title. After choosing to train from home in New Brunswick, Alex balanced work, life, and rigorous cycling training—completing every planned workout in the eight months leading up to the competition. Despite a back injury and equipment challenges on race day, his discipline and mental resilience carried him through, culminating in an unforgettable victory.
Alex also highlights the bronze medal he earned in the European road race, the increasing calibre of para-cycling competition, and the growing media coverage elevating the sport. Beyond cycling, he discusses ho...
Inside the Life of a Wheelchair Tennis Pro
On this episode, Rob Shaw breaks down his latest US Open experience—from a dramatic three-set first-round win to a tough singles loss and the demands of doubles play with longtime partner Heath Davidson. He discusses the physical toll of a near year-round international schedule, the importance of mental resilience, and how pursuing a PhD helped him stay grounded as a full-time athlete. Rob also offers an inside look at the growing movement to integrate wheelchair tennis with ATP and WTA events, the need for equal access across divisions, and his hopes for the future of the sport. Along th...
Kyle Tremblay’s Path in Para Archery
Para archery is a sport of precision, strategy, and resilience. In this in-depth conversation, Team Canada’s Kyle Tremblay explains the structure of para archery competitions, from qualification rounds and elimination matches to the intense pressure of single-arrow shoot-offs.
Kyle opens up about his journey into para archery after an accident, the challenges of competing in a sport where focus and consistency are everything, and how he rebuilt his confidence after returning from injury. He reflects on highlights like winning a Parapan Am bronze in a dramatic shoot-off and setting a personal best at the Paris Paralympics.
...Recapping the 2025 Mobility Cup
The Mobility Cup is Canada’s premier adaptive sailing competition, bringing together athletes of all abilities to compete on equal terms. In this conversation, René Dallaire shares the history of the event, its roots in Vancouver in 1991, and its tradition of moving from city to city each year.
From the unique challenges and opportunities of hosting in Montreal, to the technology that makes sailing possible for athletes with varying disabilities, the episode highlights the power of sport, inclusion, and innovation. Dallaire also discusses standout performances, including winners Brian Pickover, Tracy “Unstoppable” Schmidt, and Andrew Davis, while reflecting on the...
Team Canada’s Para Athletes Eye Milano Cortina 2026 | Kurt Oatway & Tyler Turner
In this episode of ParaSport Nation, Alex Smyth and guest co-host Kelly MacDonald dive into the latest in Canadian para sport. The show begins with big news from Canadian Blind Hockey, announcing three new programs across Victoria and Edmonton — a clear sign of the sport’s national growth.
Next, Paralympic sit skier Kurt Oatway joins the conversation to discuss his breakout 2024–25 season, the technical details behind his customized sit ski, and why he thrives in speed events like downhill and Super-G. Kurt opens up about the financial and logistical hurdles of off-season training, his love for hard, compac...
How Ottawa Is Preparing to Host the World in Wheelchair Basketball
In this episode of Para Sport Nation, host Alex Smyth and guest co-host Kelly MacDonald speak with Cindy Burwell, Executive Director of the Ottawa 2026 Wheelchair Basketball World Championships. Cindy reveals what it takes to plan an international competition with over 300 athletes, from booking venues and transportation to ensuring every detail meets accessibility standards.
The conversation dives into how Ottawa is working with tourism, hospitality, and local businesses to create a welcoming environment for athletes and fans with disabilities. Cindy also highlights the legacy programs already in motion, including introducing wheelchair basketball in schools and creating permanent practice...
Spotlighting Para Athletes at the 2025 Canada Games
On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex shares interviews with Four para-athletes competing at the 2025 Summer Games.
Christel Robichaud, team captain and veteran competitor, shares her thoughts on the bittersweet emotions of her final Canada Games. From leading teammates to chasing podium finishes, she reflects on lessons learned and what comes next.A record-setter in discus and shot put, Rémi Ouellette also competes in para ice hockey. He reflects on training, resilience, and what drives him to excel in multiple sports.At just 17, Addisyn Franceschini has already broken the Canadian F64 women’s discus record and is...How St. John’s 2025 Became the Biggest Canada Games Ever
The 2025 Canada Games are just about wrapped up, and CEO Karen Sherriffs reflects on what it takes to host the country’s biggest multi-sport event. From overcoming unexpected challenges—including nearby wildfires and an airline strike—to ensuring athletes can still compete at the highest level, the Games have been a story of resilience and teamwork.
Karen shares her personal journey with the Canada Games, beginning in 1999 and leading to her current role as CEO. She highlights the unique community footprint of St. John’s, the importance of newly built facilities like the Fortis Canada Games Complex, and the...
Christina Picton Continues to Make History in Women’s Para Ice Hockey
On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Christina Picton talks about the significance of competing at the first-ever Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championships and what it means for her personally after joining the sport at just 11 years old. She highlights the team’s preparation — from rivalry series games against the USA to national training camps — and the shared focus and energy heading into competition.
Christina also discusses her transition into Nordic skiing, her 2022 Paralympic experience, and how cross-training has boosted her performance on the ice. She opens up about training with her fiancé and fellow Paralympi...
Team Canada Goalball: Building Success One Throw at a Time
On this episode, Canadian men’s goalball captain, Peter Parsons takes us inside Canada’s fourth-place finish at the Pan American Championships, describing the emotional rollercoaster of defeating the USA, falling to Argentina in the semifinals, and coping with key injuries — including teammate Mason Smith’s broken foot and separated shoulder in the same play.
He shares personal connections with Nova Scotia players Harry Nickerson and Mason Smith, details the squad’s unique mix of youth and experience, and offers insights into building team chemistry during long tournaments.
Peter paints a vivid picture of the atmosphere...
Inside Team Canada’s Wheelchair Rugby Brotherhood
On this episode of Parasport Nation, we sit down with Team Canada wheelchair rugby star Matt Debly to dive into his journey from wheelchair basketball at the 2015 Canada Games to scoring a last-second game-winner at the Americas Championship.
Matt shares the adrenaline-fueled story of how he was recruited into wheelchair rugby, his electrifying debut at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, and how Canada’s underdog mentality fuels their push towards LA 2028. He opens up about playing short-handed at the 2025 Americas Championship, securing a thrilling bronze medal with just eight players, and what that taught him about grit, heart, an...
Building Women’s Blind Soccer in Canada
On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex and Nathan are joined by Hillary Scanlon and Matt Greenwood of the Canadian Women’s Blind Soccer team. From grassroots efforts to competing on the world stage in India, they discuss the challenges of growing the sport, training remotely, and the game-changing support from Canada Soccer. Their dedication is helping pave the way for blind soccer to gain national recognition and funding.
They also dive into how the team is preparing for the World Championships, raising awareness, and breaking down financial barriers to ensure all players can compete. With ho...
Kelly MacDonald on Goalball, Grassroots, and Growing Para Sport
In this episode of PSN, hosts Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement are joined by AMI's Kelly MacDonald, who shares his deep history with goalball and vision impairment (V.I.) sports. From childhood experiences at W. Ross Macdonald School to his thoughts on current media coverage of adaptive sports, Kelly dives into the impact of grassroots exposure and what para sport needs to grow. The episode also highlights Nathan’s exciting recap of Shim’s Ride, a unique paracycling time trial event in Vancouver. He outlines a bold vision to turn the city into a hub for para sport competition—with h...
Inside Stefan Daniel’s Para-Triathlon Journey
Canadian Paralympian and World Champion Stefan Daniel joins PSN to share his journey through para-sport, his passion for triathlon, and how he’s navigating the challenges of elite competition post-Paris Paralympics. Alex and Nathan explore Stefan’s training strategies, mental toughness, and how simplifying life outside of sport is his secret to success. Stefan talks about dealing with the "post-Paralympic blues" and shares how shifting his focus to personal happiness has been key to his athletic recovery. He also reflects on his sibling rivalry with his brother Christian, his love for Japanese cuisine, and the most scenic places he’s race...
Tyler McGregor on the Road to the Games
We’re back with more coverage from the 2026 Canadian Paralympic Media Summit! Canadian para ice hockey captain Tyler McGregor sits down with Alex to talk preparation, mindset, and the path to The 2026 Games in Milano Coritna. The newly unveiled 2026 Paralympic medal designs are making waves—are they striking gold or missing the mark? Nathan and Alex weigh in. Plus, it’s time for another round of blind power rankings! This time, Nathan challenges Alex to rank winter para sports!
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that e...
Wheelchair Rugby Star Zak Madell Retires
Wheelchair rugby star Zak Madell joins the show following his retirement from the national team after an incredible 13-year career. He looks back on his journey, shares highlights from his time on the court, and talks about what’s next in this new chapter of his life. Plus, in honour of Zak’s fashion trends over the years, Alex and Nathan discuss their favourite styles and superstitions leading into competitions.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through thre...
Racing to Milano: Mollie Jepsen, Kalle Erickson & Sierra Smith
In this episode, we bring you more coverage from the 2026 Canadian Paralympic Media Summit! Alex sits down with Para Alpine athletes Mollie Jepsen, Kalle Erickson, and guide Sierra Smith to talk about their seasons so far and how they’re gearing up for Milano Cortina. Then, things take a fun turn as Alex challenges Nathan to blindly power rank five summer para sports!
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in Engl...
New Leadership in Para Swimming for Canada
Swimming Canada’s new Associate Director of High Performance for the Paralympic Program, Jocelyn Jay, joins Alex and Nathan to chat about stepping into the role, her goals for the future of para swimming, and how her past experience with the National Team and at the 2019 Parapan Am Games has prepared her for this next chapter. Plus, the guys dive into a debate on Hall of Fames after BC Curling’s massive 77-member inaugural class is announced — featuring legends like Sonja Gaudet, Jim Armstrong, Ina Forrest, and Daryl Neighbour from Canada’s 2010 Paralympic gold-medal curling team.
Follow P...
Paralympic Prep with Mark Ideson and Ina Forrest
On this episode, we bring you two more conversations from the 2026 Canadian Paralympic Media Summit. We catch up with wheelchair curling stars Mark Ideson and Ina Forrest as they reflect on recent competitions, their Paralympic success, and how they’re preparing for Milano-Cortina. Plus, Alex and Nathan weigh in on the controversial disqualification of para-swimmer Arianna Hunsicker.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and stre...
Austin Smeenk: Engineering Success on the Track
On this episode of PSN, Paralympic champion wheelchair racer Austin Smeenk joins the show to reflect on his exciting season so far, including his latest competitions across Europe. Austin shares insights into the science behind his training and racing setup, revealing how he fine-tunes every detail to gain a competitive edge. And of course, it’s not all business — the conversation heats up as the crew talks BBQ and Austin’s passion for great food!
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowe...
Catching up with Will Stephens of TPSN
On this episode of PSN, Alex and Nathan welcome back Will Stephens of Trailer Park Sports Network (TPSN). Will shares his recent experience covering Wheelchair Handball—explaining how the sport is played, how he discovered it, and what it was like connecting with Team USA. The conversation also touches on what's next for Will, including a look at some para sports and other lesser-known competitions that deserve more attention.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three br...
What Should Stay or Go in the Paralympics?
On today’s episode, Alex and Nathan get into a debate about sports and classifications at the Paralympics. Why are some classifications left out of certain sports? What events or sports would they like to see added? Are there any sports that should be removed? The guys get into it all on this episode of PSN!
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streamin...
Brittany Hudak’s Road to the 2026 Paralympics
On this episode, we share our first interview from the Canadian Paralympic Committee’s Milano Cortina 2026 Media Summit. Alex had the chance to sit down with Para Nordic Skier and Three-time Paralympian Brittany Hudak. They discuss everything from how she got into skiing to what the road to the 2026 Games looks like for her. Plus, Alex and Nathan share their own personal experiences with media summits leading up to Paralympic Games.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities th...
From Olympian to Paralympic Gold Coach
In this episode of PSN, Alex and Nathan sit down with Geoff Harris—Athletics Canada’s Coach of the Year and recipient of the prestigious Dr. Doug Clement Award. A former Olympian himself, Geoff made headlines this past summer by coaching wheelchair racers Cody Fournie and Austin Smeenk to Paralympic gold. The trio dives into Geoff’s transition from elite athlete to respected coach, his dedication to para-sport, and the principles behind his coaching success.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowe...
Raising a Champion with Dave Clement
On this special Father’s Day episode of PSN, Alex and Nathan sit down with Nathan’s dad, Dave, for a heartfelt and entertaining conversation. Where did Nathan’s passion for sports come from? (Spoiler: it runs in the family.) What were the challenges of introducing a young Nathan to sports while navigating life with a disability? And—of course—what behind-the-scenes stories can Dave share that Nathan might not want you to hear? Join us for laughs, memories, and some fatherly wisdom on this can't-miss episode!
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
...
Prioritizing Mental Health with Greg Stewart
On today’s episode, Alex and Nathan are joined by two-time Paralympic gold medalist Greg Stewart for an honest and powerful conversation in honor of Men’s Mental Health Month. They dive into why mental health matters, how to take care of it, and what it really means to prioritize your well-being. Plus, Greg talks about his recent competition in Paris and shares some highlights of the delicious food he enjoyed during his travels.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Cana...
Ryan Roussel’s Paralympic Fencing Journey
On this episode, Alex and Nathan sit down with two-time Paralympian and Para Fencer Ryan Roussel. Ryan shares how he first got started in able-bodied fencing and what led him to transition into wheelchair fencing. He also opens up about his experiences at both the Tokyo and Paris Paralympic Games—and how unique each of them turned out to be.
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in...
Inside the World of Para Canoe with Erica Scarff
Two-time Paralympian Erica Scarff joins Alex and Nathan to chat about her journey in para canoe, including her recent 5th place finish at the 2025 World Cup. She opens up about how she got started in the sport, the role cross-training plays in her success, and what her preparation looks like as she sets her sights on the LA 2028 Games!
Follow Para Sport Nation on YouTube!
About AMI
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in F...
