The Salt Lake City 2002, Turin 2006 and Vancouver 2010 gold medallist, who also has a silver medal from Nagano 1998, was named to the prestigious role at event attended by six of her family members, and representatives from Government and the Canadian Olympic at Parliament Hill today.

She joined the announcement via satellite as she is currently training in Vienna, Austria, with the women's national team.

"This is an incredible honour and one that means so much to me after having represented Canada in hockey for so many years," said Wickenheiser, who is also standing for election to the International Olympic Committee's Athletes' Commission in Sochi. 

"Today, I have been chosen as Canada's Flagbearer, but today is about carrying the hopes and dreams of nearly 35 million Canadians to Sochi.

"I can't wait to lead an amazing group of athletes who have dedicated their lives to achieving their Olympic dreams for both themselves and Canada."

As well as her ice hockey career, which has seen her secure multiple World Championship gold medals, Wickenheiser has also represented her nation at the Summer Olympic Games, competing in softball at Sydney 2000.

Hayley Wickenheiser has already won Olympic ice hockey gold medals at Salt Lake City 2002, Turin 2006 and Vancouver 2010 ©Getty Images


Steve Podborski, the Canadian team's Chef de Mission for Sochi 2014, said she "personifies what every Olympian endeavours to be".

"She has represented Canada in five Olympic Games and she is a fierce and fair competitor, gracious in victory or defeat," he added.

"Our athletes are proud to have her as Canada's Flagbearer."

Canadian Olympic Committee President Marcel Aubut echoed those sentiments as he described Wickenheiser as one of Canada's "greatest ambassadors".

"Hayley is loved by her teammates, respected by her opponents and cherished by all Canadians," he said.

"For 20 years, Hayley has been the cornerstone of Canadian women's hockey and an integral part of the sport's growth around the world.

"This is a well-deserved honour."

Canada is aiming to top the overall medal table at Sochi 2014, with athletes already being named to compete for the nation in the disciplines of alpine skiing, biathlon, bobsleigh, cross country skiing, curling, figure skating, freestyle skiing, long track speed skating, luge, ice hockey, short track speed skating, skeleton and snowboard.

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