David
Willsie

David Willsie became a quadriplegic after he was injured in a recreational hockey game in 1995. His experience as a semi-pro baseball player and cross-country runner gave him an advantage in wheelchair rugby, and he made the national team in 1998.

Off the court, Willsie has become a public face for the sport. He was featured in the Academy Award-nominated documentary “Murderball” and has appeared on such programs as the Rick Mercer Report. He is also a mentor to up-and-coming athletes and the player-coach of the reigning national champions, the Ontario Thunder.

Despite his heavy training schedule, Willsie works as an estimator for Lind Lumber, which he runs with his brothers.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016 Paralympic Games… 2015 Parapan American Games… In his 19-year career on the national team, Willsie has won four World Championship medals, three Paralympic Games medals and countless national championship titles. Championships.

PERSONAL

Willsie is from a close-knit family with a strong hockey background. His cousin Brian Willsie played in the NHL for several years and his father was an international hockey referee.

NOTABLE INTERNATIONAL RESULTS

• 2016 Paralympic Games 4th
• 2015 Parapan American Games 1st
• 2014 World Championships 2nd
• 2012 London Paralympic Games 2nd
• 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games 3rd
• 2006 World Championships 3rd
• 2004 Athens Paralympic Games 2nd
• 2002 World Championships 1st
• 2000 Paralympic Games 4th
• 1998 World Championships 3rd