Canada’s men’s and women’s wheelchair basketball teams are looking to break a long world championship dry spell with the advantage of playing on home turf. The IWBF Wheelchair Basketball World Championships will take place in Ottawa, marking the first time since 2014 that Canada hosts the event. The tournament kicks off on Wednesday and concludes with the championship games on Sept. 19.
This year marks the inaugural occasion that Canada hosts both the men’s and women’s world championships simultaneously, with 17 countries represented by 15 men’s teams and 12 women’s teams. Iran, originally set to compete in the men’s tournament, had to withdraw due to visa complications affecting key team members, resulting in their games being recorded as forfeits without schedule alterations.
Canada’s women’s team recalls the significance of playing on home soil, having clinched gold the last time the world championship was held in Canada in Toronto back in 2014. On the other hand, the men are striving to secure their first world title since 2006. In the previous world championships in Dubai in 2023, both Canadian teams made it to the quarterfinals, with the women finishing fifth and the men sixth.
For Arinn Young, a seasoned player, this tournament marks a significant moment as it is a rare opportunity to compete at home. It will be her fourth appearance at the world championships and her second time doing so in Canada. Despite her limited playing time during the 2014 gold-winning campaign, Young is excited to showcase her skills and represent Canada on home ground.
Kady Dandeneau, set to participate in her third world championship, emphasized Canada’s aggressive approach on the court, aiming to set the tone and create their own opportunities. The women’s team is grouped with China, Brazil, Great Britain, Australia, and Spain, while the men’s team competes against Morocco, Germany, and Iran.
In the men’s division, Canada’s last world title was secured 20 years ago in Amsterdam, with a bronze medal in 1994 when Edmonton hosted the tournament. Despite lacking size, the team values their chemistry as a key strength. The roster’s mix of experience, ranging from 17-year-old Ibrahim Odza to 42-year-old Tyler Miller, highlights their focus on cohesive team play over individual performances.
The men’s tournament features four groups, with the U.S., Italy, Brazil, and the Netherlands in Group A. Canada, Morocco, and Germany are grouped together in Group D following Iran’s withdrawal. Canadian head coach Matteo Feriani stresses the importance of being prepared for intense competition from the outset, especially as the home team. The Canadian women kick off their campaign against Spain, while the men face Morocco in their opening match.
The U.S. men’s team enters the competition as the reigning world champions, while the Netherlands hold the title on the women’s side. Both Canadian teams are eager to make their mark and end their world championship drought with a strong performance in front of their home fans.