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In a momentous stride towards inclusivity in para sports, Raphaëlle Tousignant, the first woman to represent Canada’s national para hockey team, is set to make waves in Milan Cortina. Yet, despite the sport being officially designated as mixed-gender, significant barriers remain, hindering the advancement of female athletes in this dynamic discipline. As the Paralympics approach, the conversation around the inclusion of women’s para hockey intensifies, with Tousignant’s journey serving as both an inspiration and a testament to the challenges faced.
The Mixed-Gender Paradox
Para ice hockey, having debuted at the 1994 Lillehammer Games as ice sledge hockey, has garnered a reputation as one of the key attractions of the Winter Paralympics. However, the reality of its mixed-gender categorisation has not translated into equitable opportunities for female players. Historically, only three women have participated in international competitions, with Britt Mjaasund Øyen of Norway being the sole medallist. The absence of a standalone women’s event underscores a troubling trend; as Claire Buchanan, a former para ice hockey player, aptly notes, the current structure is unsustainable. “The model itself doesn’t really present fair, because there are only three spots on each international team that could be given to women,” she stated.
Tousignant’s Trailblazing Journey
At just 23, Raphaëlle Tousignant has already made history by competing with the Canadian men’s team during the 2023 World Para Hockey Championships in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Yet, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer late last year. Despite undergoing extensive chemotherapy treatments—five completed with one remaining—Tousignant remains optimistic. “I’m looking forward to putting this chapter behind me and focusing fully on preparing for the second World Championship coming up later this season,” she said, showcasing her resilience and determination.
The recognition of her talent by being named to the Canadian development team highlights her potential to contribute to a future where women’s para hockey can thrive. Tousignant has expressed gratitude for the support from her male counterparts, reinforcing that her experience has been largely positive within the men’s programme. “My teammates on the men’s team have been nothing but respectful. I’ve always felt welcome at the camps and competitions,” she noted.
The Call for Growth and Visibility
Although Canada boasts a strong para women’s hockey programme, such initiatives are sparse globally, with only a few nations like Britain, Norway, and the United States fielding recognised teams. The limited investment in women’s programmes, exacerbated by the mixed-gender framework, restricts growth. “Because it’s treated as mixed rather than as a separate women’s and men’s discipline, many countries don’t invest in women’s national programmes,” Tousignant explained. However, recent statistics from the International Paralympic Committee reveal a promising trend—women’s participation in para ice hockey has surged from virtually zero to approximately 20 per cent of the global player base since 2022, thanks to targeted development efforts.
Yet, visibility remains a crucial challenge. “Fewer athletes get into para hockey. Visibility creates belief. Young girls and women with disabilities are far more likely to try a sport if they see athletes who look like them competing at the highest level,” she emphasised. For the sport to be added as a standalone event in the Paralympic programme, a minimum of eight active national teams is required, a target that remains unmet, with only five teams currently established.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
The inaugural women’s world championship held last summer in Slovakia marked a significant milestone, despite Canada finishing as runners-up against the United States. The tournament drew thousands of viewers online and showcased the sport’s potential for growth. “They organised it so well that it felt like any other world championships,” Buchanan said, reflecting on the event’s success.
Hockey Canada has begun to acknowledge the pressing need for support, recently granting $150,000 to Women’s Para Hockey of Canada for the current season, alongside providing crucial equipment and team gear. Despite these advancements, many women’s para hockey teams still function without substantial national federation backing. “Yet without investment and competitive opportunities, it’s difficult to reach the level needed for Paralympic inclusion,” Tousignant lamented.
As advocates push for the inclusion of women’s para hockey in the 2030 Paralympic Games, Tousignant’s story exemplifies both the potential of the sport and the urgent need for structural change. “Without Paralympic exposure, many potential athletes simply never discover that the sport exists, or never see it as a realistic dream,” she remarked.
Why it Matters
The journey towards equality in para sports is crucial not only for the athletes but also for the visibility it brings to women in sports. As Raphaëlle Tousignant continues to break barriers and raise awareness, her fight reflects a broader movement advocating for inclusivity, equity, and recognition in the sporting world. The future of women’s para hockey hangs in the balance, and with continued support and visibility, it has the potential to flourish, inspiring countless young women to pursue their dreams on the ice.
