Adam Dixon joins women’s Para ice hockey team as assistant coach

OTTAWA – Adam Dixon made history as a Para ice hockey player. Now, as an assistant coach with the women’s national team, he’s looking to help shape the next chapter.

After Canada’s silver medal performance at 2026 Paralympic Winter Games last month, Dixon inquired about a position on the women’s team coaching staff. Lo and behold, there he was on the ice directing his group in practice last Thursday through a 90-minute training session.

For women’s team head coach Tara Chisholm, the addition of Dixon is more than about his resume.

‘’Adam understands what it takes to win at the highest level,’’ she said. ‘’He’s lived those moments as a player, and now our players get to learn directly from someone who has been through everything this sport can throw at you.’’

As a member of Canada’s national team, Dixon has competed in five Paralympic Winter Games earning a bronze and three silver. He played in his 252nd national team game to open the 2025 World Para Ice Hockey Championships, establishing a new Hockey Canada record for most games played with the national Para ice hockey team.

Since then, that mark has increased to 272. He now needs only five games to surpass Hayley Wickenheiser’s overall (men’s, women’s, Para) record of 276 national team games, a record he plans to achieve next season.

With his link to Canada’s successful history in the sport, Dixon now undertakes a new challenge to help shape the women’s game at a critical point in its development. He said joining the staff was an easy decision.

‘’You can feel where this team is headed,’’ said Dixon. ‘’There’s talent, there’s drive, and there’s a real sense that this group is building something important for the future of the sport.”

Players say Dixon’s impact has been immediate.

‘’When someone with his experience speaks, everyone listens,’’ said star forward Raphaelle Tousignant. ‘’He knows the details that make the difference in big games, and he brings that mindset every day.’’

High scoring forward Alyssa White says his practical advice is what stands out for her.

‘’He makes things simple,’’ she said. ‘’It’s not just systems, it’s how to think about the game, how to prepare and how to stay calm.’’

For Dixon, the coaching position is a great way to also give back to the sport.

‘’This sport gave me everything,’’ he said. ‘’If I can help this group grow and help open more doors for women in Para hockey, that’s something I’m proud to be a part of.’’