Jacob
Wassermann

Jacob Wassermann is a Canadian Para rower from Regina, Saskatchewan, set to make his Paralympic debut at the Paris 2024 Games. Born on January 9, 2000, Wassermann’s life changed dramatically when he survived the tragic Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018, which left him paralyzed from the waist down. Before the accident, he was the number-one goaltender for the Broncos, showcasing his athletic prowess in hockey.

Wassermann discovered Para rowing in late 2022, and his rapid rise in the sport has been remarkable. In 2023, he won a gold medal at the Canadian Para Rowing Championships and secured a silver medal at the 2024 World Rowing Americas Paralympic Qualification Regatta in Rio de Janeiro. This achievement earned him a quota spot for Canada in the PR1 men’s single sculls for the Paris 2024 Paralympics, setting the stage for his Paralympic debut​​​​​​.

Beyond his athletic achievements, Wassermann has garnered significant international attention for his inspiring story. Major media outlets such as Bleacher Report, the New York Post, and London’s Daily Mail have covered his journey, highlighting his transition from a hockey goaltender to a competitive Para rower. His story resonates globally as a testament to overcoming adversity and pursuing excellence despite challenging circumstances​​​​​​.

In addition to rowing, Wassermann has explored other adaptive sports, including Para ice hockey and adaptive water skiing. He is currently studying at the University of Saskatchewan and is active in his local rowing community. His resilience and rapid progress in Para rowing mark him as a promising athlete for Canada at the upcoming Paralympic Games​​​​.