Former Para swimmer Stephanie Dixon has been named Chef de Mission of the Canadian team at next year's Paralympic Games in Tokyo ©Getty Images

Former Para swimmer Stephanie Dixon has been named Canada's Chef de Mission for next year's Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

Dixon, a 19-time Paralympic medallist, will also serve as head of Canada's delegation at the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games.

The 35-year-old, assistant Chef de Mission for the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games, will be tasked with leading the Canadian squads at both events.

"I could not be more excited to be selected as Chef de Mission for the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games and the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games,” said Dixon. 

“I am passionate about ensuring our athletes have everything they need in order to give performances of a lifetime, have experiences they will never forget, and know their entire country is behind them when they step onto the field of play.

"I will be our athletes’ biggest cheerleader and share their stories with our nation so all Canadians feel they are part of their journey. 

"When we get behind our athletes, we can’t help but be inspired."

Stephanie Dixon will lead the Canadian team at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo and at the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games ©Getty Images
Stephanie Dixon will lead the Canadian team at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo and at the Lima 2019 Parapan American Games ©Getty Images

Dixon won seven Paralympic gold medals, five of which came at Sydney 2000, during her career in the pool.

She retired in 2010 following the World Para Swimming Championships to pursue a career in coaching.

Canadian Paralympic Committee President Marc-André Fabien said the organisation was "thrilled" to announce the appointment of Dixon as Chef de Mission.

Fabien also claimed the decision to hand her the position for both Lima 2019 and Tokyo 2020 would ensure consistency.

"She is a true advocate of Paralympic sport and has been a well-respected leader in our community for so many years," he said.

"She brings such energy and influence to the role in addition to her vast experience and unique insight.

"Combining the Chef de Mission role for both Lima and Tokyo will add consistency and help Stephanie to build even more of a positive team atmosphere. 

"We know she will provide outstanding support and leadership for our athletes, who will be competing in the biggest competitions of their careers."

Canada have claimed 1,059 medals at the Paralympicss, 393 of which were gold.