Canadian goalball squads announced for Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games

Whitney Bogart has been included in the Canadian team for the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games ©CPC

A mixture of veteran stars and budding newcomers have been included in the men's and women's goalball squads unveiled by the Canadian Blind Sports Association (CBSA) for the Parapan American Games here next month.

On the men's side, veteran stars Bruno Haché, Brendan Gaulin and Ahmad Zeividavi will form the focus of the team's attack, while youngsters Aron Ghebreyohannes and Blair Nesbitt will act as the cornerstones of their defence.

"We feel that the men's team which is nominated fulfills both short-term and long-term goals for the CBSA," said head coach Danny Snow.

"Short-term, our goal is to qualify for the 2016 Paralympic Games.

"Long-term, our goal is to be a podium potential team for the next two Paralympic Games."

An experienced trio of Amy Burk, Whitney Bogart and Cassandra Orgeles will, meanwhile, lead the women's team.

The team, which will be completed by Ashlie Andrews, Jillian MacSween and Tiana Knight, will be aiming to make the final and in doing so improve upon the bronze they won behind winners United States and Brazil four years ago in Guadalajara.

Canada pictured in action against the United States during London 2012 ©Getty Images

The women are coming off of a bronze medal win at the recent 2015 International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games in Seoul this in May, while the men finished just out of the medals, as they did with their fourth place finish at the 2011 Parapan American Games.

"I wholeheartedly support the teams nominated, and feel that both the men and the women have a great chance to qualify for the 2016 Paralympic Games," said Shane Esau, high performance director for Canadian Blind Sports.

"These teams combine both great defensive skills with exceptional offensive skills."

Elizabeth Young, Canada's Chef de Mission for next month's Games, added to the selected players: "Your commitment and drive got you here.

"I have no doubt that you will meet your objectives at the Games.

"It's great we have so many returning players with the team.

"That experience will be a key to our success."

Competition is due to take place at the Mississauga Sports Centre in Mississauga from August 8, the day after the Opening Ceremony, until the day of the Closing Ceremony a week later on August 2015.

Tickets are available via the Toronto 2015 website here.