Canadian star Greg Westlake ends retirement, rejoining Team Canada in pursuit of a sixth Paralympic Games at Milan-Cortina 2026.
Veteran Returns to the Ice
Canadian para hockey legend Greg Westlake has come out of retirement with hopes of competing in his sixth Paralympic Games. The Oakville, Ontario native, who spent the last two seasons as an assistant coach, rejoined Canada’s national training camp in Calgary last week.
A Career of Historic Achievements
Westlake, now 39, first won Paralympic gold at just 18 years old in Turin, Italy, in 2006. He went on to earn bronze in 2014 and silver in both 2018 and 2022, while serving as captain of the Canadian team from 2010 to 2019. His longevity and leadership have made him one of the most respected figures in international para hockey.
Why He Chose to Return
The father of two says family was a major factor in his decision. “Now I have two kids who have never seen daddy play hockey and never known me as an athlete, so that’s a driving factor,” Westlake explained. He added that his coaching role helped maintain close ties with teammates, easing his transition back into competition.
Training and Selection Process
Canada’s roster will eventually be narrowed to 15 players, including two goalies, for the 2026 Paralympic Games in Milan and Cortina. Westlake was one of 20 players invited to Calgary’s camp, with further evaluations set to continue at a camp in Oakville from September 21 to October 2.
How Teammates See His Impact
Current captain Tyler McGregor praised Westlake’s influence, calling him “an exceptional leader” whose experience is invaluable for a younger roster. Goaltender Adam Kingsmill added that Westlake’s mentorship extends well beyond the rink, describing him as someone who “will always check in, even years later.”
Looking Ahead to Milan-Cortina 2026
Canada will continue preparations with international competitions, including the IPH Cup in Ostrava, Czechia, and the Para Hockey Cup in Dawson Creek, British Columbia. If selected, Westlake would become one of the few athletes to appear in six Paralympic Games, a milestone that would cap an already remarkable career.
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