Forest native and para hockey captain Tyler McGregor has been named a flag bearer for Canada ahead of the March 6 opening ceremony at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.
He'll be joined by Para nordic skiing star Natalie Wilkie.
McGregor will be suiting up in his fourth Paralympic Winter Games.
He holds two Paralympic silver medals (2022, 2018) and a bronze (2014).
McGregor is also a three-time world champion, most recently in 2024 alongside his Para ice hockey teammates.
“The Canadian flag represents resilience, courage, and unity – values that define the Paralympic Movement and Canada’s team,” said McGregor in a news release. “It’s the honour of a lifetime to carry Canada’s spirit onto the world stage at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. This honour reflects the support of my family, friends, coaches, teammates, and community who have stood beside me throughout this incredible journey through sport and life.
“I’m filled with pride, deep gratitude, and a tremendous respect for the opportunity to represent a team that truly reflects the very best of Canada," he said.
Wilkie, who has won seven Paralympic medals over two games appearances, said she's incredibly excited and honoured to be named Canada’s flag bearer.
"To share this moment with Tyler McGregor makes it even more special,” said Wilkie in a news release. “I remember watching my coach, Brian McKeever, carry the flag in 2018 and seeing how proud he was during the ceremony. So, to follow in his footsteps and hold that same honour is amazing. I’m grateful for this opportunity, and so excited to wave the flag for a country I’m so proud to represent."
The Canadian Paralympic Committee said the opening ceremony will take place in Verona, which is not a competition cluster for the games.
Because of its location, which would require significant travel for all Canadian team members, McGregor, Wilkie, and all their Canadian teammates will not attend the opening ceremony and instead be celebrated in their respective villages.
Competition begins March 7, with McGregor’s para hockey team facing Slovakia.
Canada will be represented by 50 athletes at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, taking place until March 15.
