Ottawa, March 1, 2026 – The Europe Today: The Paralympic Winter Games begin Friday, with Canada’s men’s sledge hockey team preparing to defend its gold medal on the international stage.
Midland-born Adam Dixon spoke from Italy ahead of a practice session, reflecting on his journey to elite competition and his determination to uphold hockey’s proud place in Canadian sport.
At 36, Dixon is one of the team’s most experienced players. He first represented Canada at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games and has since competed in the next three tournaments, making 2026 his fifth Paralympic appearance.
Rivalry Renewed
Dixon said this year’s competition carries heightened anticipation, with many expecting a final showdown between Canada and the United States — a rivalry that has defined Paralympic ice hockey for years.
“The U.S. is a very good team, and we’ve always faced them in the final, so we’re looking forward to putting it on the line,” Dixon said. “We’ve got that little bit extra to prove that Canada is a superior hockey country.”
The rivalry has gained added intensity following recent U.S. gold medal victories over Canada in Olympic hockey, adding further motivation for the Paralympic squad.
Despite the pressure, Dixon emphasised the team’s composure and pride.
“I don’t think it’s any more pressure than we would have already put on ourselves,” he said.
A Journey of Resilience
Dixon’s path to international success began with adversity. Diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma at age 10, he endured months in a wheelchair followed by a year on crutches. For a time, the prospect of skating again seemed unlikely.
Raised in a hockey family, Dixon drew strength from the resilience of his relatives, who rallied together during his recovery. His primary goal through rehabilitation was to return to the ice.
When traditional hockey was no longer an option, Dixon discovered sled hockey — a turning point that reignited his sporting ambitions.
“That resilience was just demonstrated to me. I learned by watching, so that has transferred over to hockey,” he said.
Maintaining his characteristic sense of humour, Dixon added that the sport found him almost “by accident,” but he embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly.
As Canada opens its title defence, Dixon’s experience and determination will be central to the team’s campaign, with another chapter in the storied Canada–USA rivalry potentially awaiting in the final.
