Paralympic champion Michelle Stilwell Named to Order of Sport Class of 2025

The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is proud to celebrate Michelle Stilwell, one of the most decorated Paralympians in Canadian history, who will receive the Order of Sport, the nation’s highest sporting honour, marking her induction into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame.

As a six-time Paralympic gold medallist across two sports, wheelchair basketball and Para athletics, Stilwell’s athletic career is nothing short of extraordinary. She is one of a few Canadian women who won gold medals in a team and individual event at the Paralympic Games.

Stilwell made her Paralympic debut at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games, where she captured gold with Canada’s wheelchair basketball team. Transitioning to the track, she went on to become one of the world’s most dominant T52 wheelchair racers, collecting five more Paralympic golds and a total of six medals between the Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016 Games. She also claimed multiple world titles, setting world records along the way.

Beyond her athletic achievements, Stilwell has dedicated her life to public service and advocacy. She served two terms as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in British Columbia, including as Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation, championing issues of accessibility, inclusion, and disability rights.

This past week, Stilwell was elected as vice-president of the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) following the first meeting of its recently elected Board of Directors. 

Her induction into the Canadian Order of Sport recognizes not just her excellence on the world stage but also her continued impact off the field of play, as a leader, advocate, and role model.

The Canadian Order of Sport is the highest sporting honour in Canada, celebrating athletes who exemplify excellence and use their platform to make a difference in their communities and beyond. The Canadian Paralympic Committee congratulates Michelle Stilwell on this well-deserved honour and thanks her for her continued leadership in growing the Paralympic Movement in Canada.

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