As the Olympics winds down, all eyes turn to the 2024 Paris Paralympics with Team Canada's hope for a medal strongly in the hands of our Women's Sitting Volleyball team.

Volleyball Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Paralympic Committee, proudly unveiled the 12 athletes who will represent the nation in women’s sitting volleyball at the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The announcement, made on Monday, July 22, highlights the dedication and talent within this exceptional group.

The selected team includes Angelena Dolezar, Danielle Ellis, Anne Fergusson (Carleton Place, ON), Julie Kozun, Allison Lang, Jennifer McCreesh, Sarah Melenka, Jennifer Oakes, Heidi Peters, Felicia Voss-Shafiq, Jolan Wong (Petawawa, ON), and Katelyn Wright.

Canada's roster features a wealth of experience, with nine athletes returning from the Tokyo 2020 squad, where they achieved their best-ever Paralympic result, finishing fourth. Among them, seven players—including team captain Danielle Ellis—are preparing for their third Paralympic appearance. Anne Fergusson and Julie Kozun return for their second Games, while Allison Lang, Jennifer McCreesh, and Sarah Melenka are set to make their Paralympic debuts.

This talented group has already made history by earning a silver medal at the 2022 World Championships and recently capturing gold at the Dutch Tournament in Assen, Netherlands, after a thrilling five-set victory over Brazil.

“We’re thrilled to announce our roster for Paris 2024,” said head coach Nicole Ban. “It’s especially exciting to see three athletes making their Paralympic debut. Competing on the world’s biggest stage, representing Canada, and showcasing what’s possible is something this team is deeply committed to. We’re looking forward to doing our best.”

Coach Ban also emphasized the importance of the team’s experience: “We’ll be relying on the veterans who are heading to their third Paralympics. They’re motivated to build on past performances, knowing the toughest challenges lie ahead. We’re eager to face them head-on at what promises to be an unforgettable Paralympic Games in Paris.”

Canada secured their spot in Paris by advancing to the semifinals at the 2023 WPV Sitting Volleyball World Cup in Cairo, Egypt, marking the team’s third consecutive Paralympic appearance.

The sitting volleyball competition at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will take place from August 29 to September 7 at North Paris Arena. Canada’s preliminary matches include clashes with Slovenia on August 29, Brazil on August 31, and Rwanda on September 2. The semifinals are scheduled for September 5, with the medal matches.  set for September 7.

Join the OVA community and support Team Canada via CBC for Live TV and Streaming coverage.