The Canadian Blind Sports Association and the Canadian Paralympic Committee have announced the 12 athletes nominated for selection to Team Canada in men’s and women’s goalball at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games ©Canadian Paralympic Committee

The Canadian Blind Sports Association and the Canadian Paralympic Committee have announced 12 athletes for the men’s and women’s goalball competitions at the upcoming Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

Both Canadian teams qualified for Rio last summer with bronze medal performances at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games.

At the London 2012 Paralympic Games, Canada finished fifth in the women’s competition and tenth in the men's.

"Congratulations to our athletes nominated to play for Canada in goalball," said Team Canada’s Chef de Mission, Chantal Petitclerc.

"This Paralympic-only sport is incredibly competitive internationally and I know both our men’s and women’s teams will bring their toughest game and compete with pride in Rio."

The women’s team is led by Nancy Morin, who is set to feature in her fifth Paralympic Games. 

She was a member of the 2000 and 2004 gold medal-winning squads.

Two-time world champions Whitney Bogart and Amy Burk are also veterans, heading to their third Games.

Ashlie Andrews and Jillian McSween were in the London 2012 squad while Meghan Mahon will make her Paralympic debut.

Both Canadian teams qualified for Rio last summer with bronze medal performances at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games ©Canadian Paralympic Committee
Both Canadian teams qualified for Rio last summer with bronze medal performances at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games ©Canadian Paralympic Committee

The men’s side includes Bruno Haché and Brendan Gaulin, who head to their fourth and third Paralympic Games respectively. 

It will be a second Games for Ahmad Zeividavi and Doug Ripley whilst Blair Nesbitt and Simon Richard will be making their debuts.

"Canadian Blind Sports is very excited to be able to nominate these 12 players to represent Canada in Rio de Janeiro at the 2016 Paralympic Games," said Shane Esau, high performance director at the Canadian Blind Sports Association.

“It is an honour bestowed on very few individuals and I know that these individuals have trained diligently and been dedicated to being the best athletes and goalball players they can be.

"I am excited about the prospects of our teams and know that they can improve on their placings from the London 2012 Paralympic Games if they play well. 

"Congratulations to the 12 athletes and Good Luck in Rio."

The men’s team will be supported by head coach Trent Farebrother and assistant Darren Hamilton, whilst Nathalie Segun will lead the women’s team, also with the assistance of Hamilton.