Team Canada perseveres a challenging Goalball World Championships.
The Canadian Blind Sports Association Men’s and Women’s Goalball Teams have spent the past 15 Days in Portugal attending the IBSA Goalball World Championships 2022. The top 16 Men’s and Women’s teams from around the world came together to compete for the sought-after title of “IBSA Goalball World Champion”.
The CBSA’s High Performance Director Adam Janssen reported that the “Women’s National Team had a very positive tournament highlighted by a strong top four finish and a win over the reigning Paralympic Champions during the group stage. The Team ended the group stage 7-0 and progressed both from an offensive and defensive standpoint throughout the tournament, scoring first in all 10 matches they played. We will be moving forward to address the gaps identified from this tournament to ensure future podium successes.
Adam also noted that the Men’s National Team displayed some excellent play on both sides of the ball but ultimately, we fell short of our performance goals. The Men’s Team World Championships was highlighted by an excellent 9-8 win over Japan. We will be prioritizing identified structures in the New Year to ensure a strong focus on qualification for Paris 2024.
Both teams represented Canada well and showed plenty of positives. I thank the athletes for their endeavour and commitment the last three weeks, as well as the stellar conduct of our National Team staff that included Trent Farebrother, Nathalie Seguin, Darren Hamilton, Nadine Smith, Meghan Buttle, Christine Camozzi and Chloe Gagnon.”
CBSA President; Launel J. Scott had these words for the team:
On behalf of the CBSA Board of Directors, I congratulate the Canadian National Men and Women Goalball Teams and Staff for their commitment and major efforts extended in play at the IBSA Goalball World Championships 2022. Teamwork plays a role in every success, and with the combined skills and talent put together, that synergy leads to the attainment of your goals. Thank you for your perseverance, and united there is much success to celebrate.
CBSA wishes to also acknowledge our Canadian Officials who participated in the Championships. Great work!
Stephen Burke
Director of Domestic Programs and National Team Manager
Canadian Blind Sport Association
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