Para Sport Nation

The 2026 Commonwealth Games are officially here! We have exclusive conversations with Team Canada's Opening Ceremony flag bearer Kady Dandeneau, athletics co-captain Zachary Gingras, and para bowls trailblazers Jean Stairs and Anne Hibberd!

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabi...

Peter Parsons joins the show to recap last month's 2026 Goalball World Championships in China. Plus, with the Commonwealth Games getting underway this week, Nathan and Alex preview Canada's para-athletes, key storylines, and much more!

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadi...

After helping the Senior Women's Wheelchair Basketball Team earn silver at the Ottawa Invitational, longtime national team member Kady Dandeneau joins to reflect on the tournament and discuss Canada's preparations for the 2026 World Championships this September.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice...

Para lead and COPAC Chair LA Schmidt joins to preview the 2026 ICF Canoe Sprint & Paracanoe World Cup in Montreal. She shares her perspective on the sport's growing commitment to inclusivity, the excitement of racing in front of a home crowd, and what makes competing on home water such a special experience.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to...

Rising Canadian para track star Chloe Dunbar joins the show after medaling at the Canadian Track and Field Championships. She talks about her path to the national team and her upcoming competition at the Commonwealth Games. Plus, Nathan chats about his recent election to the CPC Athletes Council!

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as...

It’s an all-basketball episode as we explore the growth of blind basketball in Canada. Eli Bomers, Executive Director of the Blind Basketball Association of Canada, discusses the sport’s rising popularity, while coach Sheldon Guy shares his unique approach to coaching as the only able-bodied basketball coach in North America who identifies as blind.

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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 streaming platform A...

Nathan and Producer Jeff recap the biggest moments from the first six months—including Milano Cortina 2026—and look ahead to major events still to come, from Glasgow to Ottawa. Plus, they discuss Belgium's historic Olympic and Paralympic merger and what it could mean for the future of sport.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a l...

Paratriathlon, para athletics, and high-performance sport take center stage as Leanne Taylor and George Quarcoo share how they are navigating competition, recovery, family life, and long-term goals.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and po...

Brianna Hennessy reflects on her Para Canoe World Cup silver medal, and what it means to race at home in Montreal. She also discusses the rapid growth of women’s wheelchair rugby, athlete leadership, and the importance of funding support through CAN Fund.

Plus, Jesse McNalley breaks down Ontario’s national championship win, while sharing how he balances roles as an athlete, coach, and development staff member as Canada builds toward the Wheelchair Basketball World Championships in Ottawa.

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Fresh off a silver medal finish at the USAV Sitting Volleyball Cup in Orlando, Canadian sitting volleyball athletes Allison Lang and Heidi Peters reflect on the team’s growth since the Paris 2024 Paralympics. The conversation explores how the program is adapting after major roster and staff changes while preparing for upcoming international competitions in the Netherlands and China!

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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...

The Canadian Wheelchair Rugby Championships were held at Carleton University, where the Ontario Thunder came out on top with a victory over Quebec. Ontario Thunder star — and friend of the show — Matt Debly breaks down the championship and shares his thoughts on the event. Plus, Nathan was on site covering the OneAbility Games and talks about his experience from the competition.

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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-té...

Andrea Carey explains how the OneAbility Games are creating more accessible opportunities for kids with disabilities to experience sport, while Team Canada goalball athlete Emma Reinke shares what it takes to compete at the international level following a gold medal performance in Sweden.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the of...

Elliott Beals, the new head coach of Canada’s national para badminton program, reflects on his path from longtime player to leading elite para athletes. Plus, Paralympic rower Victoria Nolan shares a personal look at her journey with vision loss and her upcoming film Blindly Victorious, inspired by her memoir. 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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering...

Women’s wheelchair rugby in Canada is entering a new era. This conversation with Mélanie Labelle explores the first Canadian Women’s Wheelchair Rugby Championship, its impact on Paralympic development, and what it takes to build a sustainable national program.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessib...

The 43rd edition of Défi Sportif is setting a new standard for para sport in Canada. Executive Director Maxime Gagnon shares what makes this year different, from an extended 11-day schedule to the introduction of the first-ever Canadian women’s wheelchair rugby national championship.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in...

The inaugural Frontier Series in Ottawa brought together Canada and the United States for a high-level showcase of women’s para ice hockey. Christina Picton and Tara Chisholm reflect on the intensity of the competition, the growth of the Canadian program, and the impact of hosting the event alongside grassroots tournaments. The result was more than a series of close games. It became a powerful introduction to the sport for new fans and young athletes.

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Greg Westlake and Tyler McGregor share candid insights about the intensity of the tournament, from pre-camp training in Oakville and Verace to the excitement of competing in front of record-breaking crowds. They discuss the unique challenges of returning home post-Games, balancing family life, and the energy of young players joining the team. 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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the...

Jill Jaracz and Alison Brown share what it was like on the ground in Italy, highlighting the energy of live crowds, logistical challenges, and the contrast between the Milano Cortina Games and Beijing 2022. They discuss the thrill of witnessing historic moments, like Team USA sweeping hockey medals and remarkable performances in para ice hockey and curling. They also reflect on snow and course conditions, accessibility to athletes, and unforgettable athlete stories! 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 En...

From the evolution of Paralympic storytelling to the impact of having active athletes behind the mic, this conversation explores how coverage has changed and why it matters. Nathan shares what it felt like to transition from athlete to broadcaster, including the pressure of live television and the teamwork behind the scenes.

The episode also highlights standout Canadian performances, including dominant wheelchair curling, milestone medal moments, and rising stars who shaped the Games. Beyond results, the discussion tackles bigger issues like weather challenges, scheduling concerns, and what needs to change ahead of future Winter Paralympics.

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Fresh off a gold medal performance, Mark Ideson shares what it felt like to compete at the Paralympic Games and execute under the highest pressure moments. From the chaos of the final shot to the team’s ability to stay composed, he offers a candid look at elite-level decision-making and trust.

The conversation explores Team Canada’s undefeated run, the physical and mental demands of a grueling tournament schedule, and how preparation, communication, and resilience shaped their success. Ideson also reflects on the electric atmosphere in Italy, from packed crowds to the unique athlete village experience.

Be...

The 2026 Paralympic Games in Milano Cortina are in full swing, and Alex brings you closer to the action with exclusive interviews from some of the biggest names in adaptive sports. From the slopes to the ice, he sits down with bronze medal-winning snowboarder Tyler Turner, multi-medalist visually impaired skier Kalle Eriksson and guide Sierra Smith, 14-time Paralympian Mark Arendz, and viral wheelchair curler Jon Thurston to hear their stories, insights, and unforgettable moments from the Games.

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The Milano Cortina Paralympic Winter Games are about to begin, and PSN looks ahead at the storylines shaping Canada’s campaign. Alex and Nathan share their excitement as the Paralympics return, reflecting on the athletes, rivalries, and moments that could define the upcoming Games.

Nathan discusses the opportunity to bring Paralympic coverage to Canadians through CBC and the importance of sharing the journeys behind the athletes competing on the world stage. The conversation also dives into predictions for the Games, including a bold call for a dramatic Canada vs. United States overtime gold medal match in para ic...

Momentum is building for Team Canada as the Winter Paralympics approach, and this episode captures that energy from multiple angles. The conversation opens with the official announcement of Canada’s Para Alpine team, highlighting a resilient roster shaped by injury comebacks, Crystal Globe wins, and strong late-season World Cup performances. The discussion focuses on why this group is positioned for early success, especially in speed events like downhill.

The spotlight then turns to Brian McKeever, now head coach of Canada’s Para Nordic team. Drawing from decades of experience as both athlete and leader, McKeever explains how the...

The show opens with a conversation featuring Tyler Miller, a senior men’s national team member in wheelchair basketball. He shares insight into preparation, mindset, and how confidence built through consistent work can reduce competitive stress, particularly for younger athletes navigating high-performance environments.

The focus then shifts to blind ice hockey with Luca DeMontis from Canadian Blind Hockey. He breaks down preparations for the upcoming 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament in Toronto, including the excitement around international participation and the continued growth of the sport.

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Momentum is building as the countdown to the 2026 Paralympic Games continues. The conversation opens with a look at recent success across Para sport in Canada, including Crystal Globe achievements by Alexi Guimond and Molly Jepson, and what those performances signal heading into the next Games cycle.

Scott Sanderson, Executive Director of the Paralympic Foundation of Canada, joins the show to explain how athlete funding, donor engagement, and long-term development are shaping Canada’s Paralympic future. He shares insight into where the program is headed and why sustained support matters as expectations rise for Milano-Cortina.

The ep...

This episode centers on the latest Paralympic roster announcements for Team Canada, beginning with Para Snowboard. Veteran medal contenders and first-time Paralympians form a balanced lineup, with recent World Cup podiums and strong early-season results signaling confidence heading into competition. The discussion highlights how experience and emerging talent intersect as Canada prepares for high-expectation events like snowboard cross.

The conversation then dives deep into Para Nordic skiing, where one of Canada’s largest rosters in recent memory reflects both sustained excellence and long-term development. Proven medalists, multi-time world champions, and athletes entering their first Paralympic Games are ex...

Para swimmer Mary Jibb joins the show to reflect on her breakout performance at the World Para Swimming Championships, where she won gold, set records, and established herself as a rising star. She discusses her training, move across the country to train with her coach, and goals for the upcoming season.

The episode also features Brian McLean, Volunteer President of Achilles Canada, who previews the Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Run and explains how the long-running event promotes accessibility, inclusion, and community support for athletes with disabilities.

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Can a blind tech enthusiast survive DIY furniture builds and the Surface Laptop rollercoaster? Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into hilarious home mishaps, AI guide dog experiments, and the unpredictable world of ARM-based Windows laptops. Expect tech insights with plenty of laughs.

In this lively episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott recounts his adventures in DIY after taking on a flat-pack table and chairs armed with a new cordless screwdriver, leading to stripped screws and comedy chaos. The hosts then explore real-world experiences with AI apps for blind users, including the “AI guide dog...

Fresh off a career-defining season that included a third-place finish at the World Championships, Katie Pegg shares what made the moment feel different. She explains how calm replaced nerves, how preparation paid off, and how a personal best throw reshaped her expectations of herself on the world stage.

The conversation explores Katie’s upcoming move to Victoria, British Columbia, where she will continue training under coach Jody Langley following Langley’s new role with Athletics Canada. Katie speaks openly about the importance of trust, communication, and long-term athlete–coach relationships in high-performance sport.

Katie also breaks...

Jill Jaracz and Alison Brown reflect on how their podcast grew from casual Olympic conversations into a trusted, year-round space for Olympic and Paralympic sport. What began as a way to recreate “water-cooler” chats during the Games evolved into deeper storytelling driven by listener interest and athlete trust.

They discuss how listener feedback led them into Paralympic coverage, why treating Paralympians like any other elite athlete matters, and how sports-focused interviews help move media away from inspirational framing. The conversation highlights memorable moments from Beijing 2022 and Paris, including the atmosphere of blind football, goalball, wheelchair rugby, and Para...

The Montreal Open goalball tournament brings Canada’s top teams together each January, and this year’s event stands out with strong national talent, growing women’s participation, and key storylines for Nova Scotia and Team Canada heading into a busy season. 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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians wi...

Hosts Alex Smyth, Nathan Clement, and producer Jeff Ryman break down the most anticipated para sport storylines for 2026. They explore the Winter Paralympics in Milano Cortina, highlighting potential challenges in Paralympic Village accessibility, snow conditions, and venue readiness.

The team also discusses Canada’s para ice hockey roster aiming to dethrone the U.S., para alpine skiing medal contenders, and the underappreciated athletes poised to make podium finishes. Coverage extends to the 2026 World Championships in wheelchair basketball in Ottawa, showcasing accessible event planning, and the para sport integration at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Fo...

Para Sport Nation wraps up 2025 with a focused roundtable reflection on the stories that shaped the year in para sport. Alex Smyth, Nathan Clement, and Jeff Ryman highlight Canadian success across world championships, late-season momentum in para biathlon and Nordic skiing, and the growing depth of national programs.

The episode spotlights the inaugural Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championship as a major step forward, alongside leadership and cultural changes within Canada’s men’s para ice hockey team. Additional discussion covers the return to form of Canada’s para alpine athletes, the mixed doubles wheelchair curling qualific...

In this episode, Alex and Nathan chat with Samuel Charron, captain of Canada’s 7-a-side soccer team. They learn about his journey in the sport, the landscape and evolution of 7-a-side or CP soccer in Canada. Samuel also discusses the importance of grassroots and growing the sport across the country. The guys also play a game of Brand Association, determining whether iconic Canadian brands would be a better sponsor for the Winter or Summer Paralympic Games.

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In this episode, Alex and Nathan chat with Boris Rybalka, the new head coach of Team Canada’s Para Ice Hockey team. He talks about taking over head coaching duties for the national program, his journey in hockey, both in junior and para, and how he sees gold in the team’s future. He also reflects on the team’s recent performance at the Para Ice Hockey Cup. They guys also discuss how thick the ice is for the para ice hockey team and para-Nordic team based on recent tournament results.

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Join six-time Para Surfing World Champion Victoria Feige as she shares her journey from growing up in Vancouver to training on Oahu’s world-class waves. In this episode, Victoria breaks down the para surfing classification system, explains how competitions are scored, and reveals the intense training and cross-training routines that keep her at the top of her sport. She also discusses how her career as a physiotherapist informs her approach to performance, injury prevention, and mentoring the next generation of adaptive surfers. From the thrill of catching a perfect barrel to navigating the challenges of competing while sick, Victoria pr...

Para snowboard Next Gen athlete Chase Nicklin shares his rapid rise through the sport, what developing on Canada’s Next Gen program looks like, and how mindset, mentorship, and preparation shape a Paralympic pathway toward Milano Cortina 2026.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice...

Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement speak with Doug Hannam, Executive Director of Ontario Para Network, about the Ontario government’s sport hosting program. Doug explains how funding support has enabled ONPARA to host national and international events, including wheelchair basketball championships at Durham College and the upcoming World Championships in Ottawa.

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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 streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to es...

Alex Smyth and Nathan Clement discuss Team Canada’s wheelchair curling performance, share their “ice thickness” analysis of all Paralympic winter sport teams ahead of Milano Cortina 2026, and interview Mac Marcoux, former para alpine skier and newly named honorary captain of the Canadian Paralympic team, about his role, athlete engagement, and preparation for the Games.

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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 streaming platform AMI...

Erik Groves, PARAREACH Canadian Sport Institute Alberta, Red Deer Polytechnic, Canadian Paralympic Committee, research, accessibility, AMI, para sport, Lululemon, Milano Cortina Paralympic Games, Paralympics, Paralympic Gear, Vancouver 2010, 2015 Parapan Am Games, adaptive sports, sports training, winter sports, winter gear, sports media, upcoming Paralympics, Blind Power Rankings, non-Paralympic sports, para bobsled, para surfing, showdown, para arm wrestling, blind hockey.

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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 st...