Fredericton’s Austin MacLellan is creating history this week as the first New Brunswick athlete to represent Canada at the global wheelchair rugby championships. MacLellan’s journey to the international stage began with an opportunity to try a new sport after playing wheelchair basketball in 2021.
Initially hesitant, MacLellan accepted the invitation to join the local wheelchair rugby team, equipping himself with a chair and gloves. In just five years, he has excelled in the physically demanding sport known for its aggressive nature, often likened to high-speed bumper cars and originally dubbed “murderball.”
The world championships are currently ongoing in São Paulo, Brazil, until Sunday. Sally Chamberlain, executive director of Parasport New Brunswick, expressed the significance of MacLellan’s selection for Team Canada, emphasizing that it marks a groundbreaking moment for the province.
MacLellan’s inclusion in Canada’s senior national team in 2025 led to his international debut that year. His recent accolades include being named the Division 1 Garett Hickling most valuable player at the Canadian wheelchair rugby national championships, where New Brunswick claimed fourth place.
Grateful for the support from the wheelchair rugby community in New Brunswick, MacLellan acknowledges the pivotal role of mentors like Hal Merrill, a respected figure in the province’s wheelchair rugby scene. Following Merrill’s guidance, MacLellan has not only honed his sporting skills but also imbibed valuable life lessons and confidence from his teammates.
Looking ahead to the world championships, MacLellan aims to work hard, enjoy the experience, and leverage his training. Eager to learn from seasoned players worldwide, he hopes to further develop his game during the tournament. Canada, currently ranked sixth globally, kicked off the competition against Australia and will also compete against Brazil, the United States, the Netherlands, and New Zealand in pool play.
Beyond personal aspirations, MacLellan wishes to inspire young athletes to pursue their sporting dreams, urging them to embrace parasports and take the leap into new opportunities. His commitment to giving back to the community by sharing his knowledge and experiences with local players and coaches underscores his dedication to fostering the growth of wheelchair rugby in New Brunswick.