Fredericton’s Austin MacLellan is breaking new ground this week as the first New Brunswick athlete to represent Canada at the global wheelchair rugby championships. MacLellan’s journey to the international arena began with an unexpected opportunity to try out a new sport. In 2021, while engaged in wheelchair basketball, MacLellan was approached to join the local wheelchair rugby team due to a shortage of players. Embracing the challenge, MacLellan dove into the full-contact sport and swiftly ascended to the pinnacle of his game within a span of five years.
Wheelchair rugby, often likened to high-speed bumper cars or “murderball,” involves intense physicality with athletes blocking and colliding with each other. The world championships are currently ongoing in São Paulo, Brazil, and MacLellan’s participation marks a significant milestone for New Brunswick, according to Sally Chamberlain, executive director of Parasport New Brunswick. Chamberlain highlighted the historic nature of MacLellan’s inclusion in the Canadian team, emphasizing the potential for athletes from smaller communities to achieve excellence in their respective sports.
Having earned a spot on Canada’s senior national team in 2025 and making his international debut that same year, MacLellan’s recent accolades include being named the Division 1 Garett Hickling Most Valuable Player at the Canadian wheelchair rugby national championships. His remarkable journey culminates in his debut at the world championships, where he proudly dons the Team Canada jersey.
Acknowledging the instrumental role of the wheelchair rugby community in his development, MacLellan attributes much of his progress to mentors like Hal Merrill, a revered figure in New Brunswick wheelchair rugby who passed away last year. MacLellan values the guidance and support he has received, embodying the spirit of mentorship by imparting his knowledge and experiences to aspiring athletes in the local community.
At the world championships, MacLellan aims to leverage his training and embrace the learning opportunities presented by seasoned players from across the globe. With Canada ranked sixth in the world, MacLellan and his team kicked off the tournament against second-ranked Australia. Beyond personal success, MacLellan hopes to inspire young athletes to push their boundaries and explore the world of parasports, echoing the same leap of faith that propelled his own remarkable journey.