Canadian Hockey Team Back on Top of Podium!

Canadian National Blind Hockey Team wins 2026 International Blind Ice Hockey Series

TORONTO, ON – Canadian Blind Hockey is proud to announce that the Canadian National Blind Hockey Team has captured its 7th consecutive gold medal.  Team Canada continued its dominance at the 2026 International Blind Ice Hockey Series, held March 20–22 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre in Toronto.

In a landmark year for the sport, the 2026 International Blind Ice Hockey Series marked the debut of Team World, joining long-standing rivals Team USA and Team Canada. The expanded international format showcased the rapid global growth of Blind Ice Hockey and elevated the level of competition on the ice as it included players from Canada, USA, UK and Finland.

The Canadian team once again demonstrated Para sport excellence as the athletes showcased incredible skill and execution while dominating the worlds fastest team sport while having 10% vision or less.

“This is a truly special moment for our program and for our country to be able to bring home a gold medal for Canada,” said Luca DeMontis, General Manager of the Canadian National Blind Hockey Team. “To win seven consecutive gold medals is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and heart of this group. Watching these athletes wear the maple leaf and leave everything on the ice fills us with immense pride. They continue to raise the bar for what’s possible in Blind Hockey, and we couldn’t be more proud to bring this gold medal home to Canada.”

Team Canada standouts Jason Yuha from Rosalind, AB and Liam O’Callahan from Edmonton, AB tied to lead the tournament in scoring with 21 points each and were named Tournament All-Stars in the B3 category (10% vision or less). Joining them were teammates Mark DeMontis from Toronto, ON and Simon Richard from Moncton, NB who were named All-Stars in the B2 category (5% vision or less).  The All-Star team was rounded out by rookie Marten Orr from Finland (B3), and Team USA goaltender Doug Goist (B1).

Since its inception in 2018, the International Blind Ice Hockey Series has served as the premier international competition for the sport. The introduction of Team World in 2026 represents a major step forward in expanding Blind Hockey globally leading towards the creation of a World Championships for the Para sport.

“This year’s tournament showed exactly how far Blind Hockey has come,” said Matt Morrow, Executive Director of Canadian Blind Hockey. “The addition of Team World in the International Blind Ice Hockey Series showcased the growth of the sport in countries outside of North America and demonstrated there are skilled Blind Ice Hockey players competing around the world. Canada is proud to lead the growth of our Canadian-invented Para sport and support the development of Blind Hockey programs worldwide and work towards a World Championships.”

All games are available to watch on Canadian Blind Hockey’s YouTube.

For more information, and to arrange interviews please contact Canadian Blind Hockey’s Marketing and Communications Manager Mel Carrey melcarrey@blindicehockey.com

The 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Team roster includes:

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Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to announce that the 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament is returning to Toronto from March 20 – 22, 2026 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre. Now in its 12th year, the tournament has played a significant role in the growth of the Para sport of Blind Hockey across Canada and around the world. The event is brought to you by the CNIB Foundation and made possible by our national partners at the Canucks for Kids Fund, Electra Health, the Daniel Family Foundation, and Manion.

The 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament will be the largest Blind Hockey tournament hosted to date. There will be 25 games played across several divisions including children, youth, low vision and development, open, and for the first time ever – a three team International Blind Ice Hockey Series featuring Canada, USA, and Team World!

Players come from all over the world to compete in this tournament including Canada, as well as the United States, Finland and England. This year, Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to host the 2026 International Blind Ice Hockey Series and hope that the implementation of Team World inspires other international blind sport organizations to begin Blind Hockey programs in hopes that the Para sport becomes included in the Paralympic Games.

About Blind Hockey Rules and Adaptations

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Thank you to our 2026 sponsors and partners:

Blind Hockey player Mark Bentz has a plan to help get us the rest of the way: he’s contributing up to $25,000 in matching donations! Double your impact and join our Donor-Wall-of-Fame by donating today here.

Learn about the life-changing impact of Blind Hockey programs from Mark in his own words:

I was diagnosed with cone-rod dystrophy at age nine. It’s a degenerative condition, and today I have about two percent vision with a prognosis of eventual total vision loss. Sports were a huge part of my life growing up, but by my early teens I could feel my vision affecting my ability to keep up. By 13, team sports had become too fast and dynamic so I stepped away. Someone suggested Para Alpine Skiing and after I discovered the sport I progressed quickly, competing provincially and nationally within two years.

I was picked at 15 to compete in the 1984 Innsbruck Austria Paralympics for Para Alpine Skiing. At a time when school was a struggle and I knew I was limited due to my eyesight, having the Paralympic dream gave me direction and hope. Between the ages of 14 and 18 I want two gold medals at the Paralympics and two gold medals at the World Championships. After reaching that peak, I chose not to return to the Paralympics and stepped away from competition.

The years that followed were difficult. Without sport and without my vision, I lost purpose and struggled, including a period of addiction. Thankfully by 23, I returned to school, studying kinesiology and then massage therapy. I knew I wanted to own my own business, and massage therapy fit perfectly as I adjusted to life with vision loss. That decision changed everything. I went from feeling like I was losing to feeling like I was winning again. Over time, I opened several clinics and eventually founded Electra Health, now one of the largest multidisciplinary clinics in Canada.

At 30, someone walked into my clinic and mentioned Blind Hockey. I thought he was joking. I hadn’t skated since elementary school. I decided to try an Eclipse practice, and I was instantly hooked. I wasn’t the best player, but it was fun, and it felt incredible to be part of a team again. With a degenerative disease, you’re always aware that life can change suddenly, but Blind Hockey gave me something I could grow in and hold onto. It restored a sense of purpose and belonging.

Today, being able to give back through Canadian Blind Hockey feels like coming full circle. It brings up a lot of emotion, but also a lot of gratitude. Blind Hockey gave me purpose later in life, just as Para sport did in my teens, and it’s a privilege to support the next generation. My hope is that Blind Hockey continues to grow toward the Paralympic stage, giving athletes opportunities that didn’t exist for me in regards to Blind Hockey at the competitive level. Building strong youth and children’s programs is how we get there and not if but when we make that historic moment possible.

When you donate now until March 22, 2026, you are helping Canadian Blind Hockey reach its fundraising goal of $100,000. I pledge to match up to $25,000 to ensure they reach their goal and continue to help inspire hundreds of Canadians who are blind or partially sighted: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/141041

The Canadian National Blind Hockey Team are 6-time Gold Medallists Against Team USA, Will Now Face Team World in the International Series

TORONTO, ON, March 2 2026 – Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to announce that the 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Team will be looking to earn its 7^th consecutive championship and defend their title against Team USA in Toronto March 20 – 22 2026 as part of the 12^th Annual Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament at Mattamy Athletic Centre.

Since 2019, the International Blind Ice Hockey Series has been a two-team three-game series between the Canadian and American Blind Hockey Teams. With the rapidly growing Para sport, organizers hope that the introduction of a Team World will increase awareness and encourage more Blind Hockey programs to grow across the globe.

“Over the past few weeks, our country has rallied behind our Olympic teams as they showcased the very highest level of hockey on the world stage and to now watch the Canadian National Blind Hockey Team pull that same maple leaf over their hearts is incredibly powerful,” reflects Luca DeMontis, General Manager, Canadian National Blind Hockey Team. “This group continues to amaze us with their elite talent, skill, and teamwork all while playing the game with 10 percent vision or less. I cannot wait to see them represent our nation.”

This year’s Canadian National Blind Hockey Team features 20 players representing seven different provinces spanning the country from BC to Newfoundland.

“This tournament is an annual celebration of how much the Para sport of Blind Hockey has grown across Canada and internationally,” reflects Matt Morrow, Executive Director of Canadian Blind Hockey. “With this being a Paralympic year, the demand to help Blind Hockey grow internationally in order to qualify as a Paralympic sport is greater than ever. We’re hoping the introduction of Team World will show countries that Canada is a true leader in Blind Hockey and that we want to help develop the sport abroad.”

The Para sport of Blind Hockey is played by athletes who are blind or partially sighted using an adapted puck that is larger than a traditional puck and makes noise. At the international level players must be classified under the same system used in the Paralympics and have 10% vision or less.

Location: Mattamy Athletic Center, 50 Carlton street, Toronto

Schedule:

All games are free for the public to attend and will be broadcast live on Canadian Blind Hockey’s YouTube.

The 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Team roster includes:

ABOUT:

International Blind Ice Hockey:

Canadian Blind Hockey founded the International Blind Ice Hockey Federation (IBIHF) to grow the Canadian-invented parasport of Blind Hockey into the United States and around the world.  Canadian Blind Hockey’s goal in international development is to create competition opportunities for the Canadian National Blind Hockey Team. Currently Canada and the United States have the only two national Blind Hockey programs in the world, however representatives from England, Finland, Russia, and Australia have participated in our programs and events and are working to establish programs in their home countries. The goal of the IBIHF is to found a World Championships for Blind Hockey, and to bring the sport to enough countries to be able to apply for inclusion in the Winter Paralympic Games.

For more information, and to arrange interviews please contact Canadian Blind Hockey’s Marketing and Communications Manager Mel Carrey melcarrey@blindicehockey.com

Canadian Blind Hockey Welcomes Paralympic Medalist and World Champion Tyler McGregor as New Ambassador

Tyler McGregor joins World Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist Natalie Spooner as Canadian Blind Hockey Ambassadors to Support the Growing Organization and Para Sport of Blind Hockey.

Toronto ON, Thursday February 12 2026 – Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to announce that the captain of Canada’s Para Ice Hockey Team, Tyler McGregor, is joining the charity as our newest Ambassador. His primary role will be to help raise awareness for Canadian Blind Hockey and champion the Para sport of Blind Hockey across Canada, while also supporting international development efforts.

“I feel so much gratitude. After nearly 15 years of competing, it’s important to reflect on how I can make the greatest impact across other Para sports, including Blind Hockey,” says McGregor. “Having been involved in Blind Hockey for almost a decade, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the athletes and their dedication to the game. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to help create pathways so that any athlete who wants to compete at the highest level in Para sport has access to opportunities like the Paralympics. I want Blind Hockey athletes to have that same chance.”

McGregor’s involvement will create a significant impact in the lives of children, youth, and adults who are blind or partially sighted across Canada, both on and off the ice. Canadian Blind Hockey is confident he will help recruit more Canadians who are blind or partially sighted to the game, while also supporting the international development of the sport, with the ultimate goal of inclusion in the Paralympic Games.

“Tyler McGregor is a Paralympic champion and a role model across Para sports, and his endorsement of Blind Hockey means so much to our community,” says Matt Morrow, Executive Director of Canadian Blind Hockey. “Tyler has reached the highest level as Canada’s captain on the world stage, and now he’s helping the next generation believe their dreams are possible too. For some Blind Hockey athletes, that dream is standing on a podium one day; for others, it’s the chance to get off the bench and take part in a weekly program. Tyler’s leadership shows that every dream matters.”

McGregor’s story is one of resilience and determination. At 15, his life changed when he was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, a form of soft-tissue cancer that resulted in the amputation of his left leg above the knee. During his recovery, he was introduced to Para ice hockey and realized he still had a pathway to compete and find a new team. Tyler has been a fixture on the Men’s National Para Ice Hockey Team since 2012 and has collected three world titles (2013, 2017, 2024), Paralympic silver medals in 2018 and 2022, and a Paralympic bronze medal in 2014.

McGregor is currently preparing to represent Canada at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milano. On behalf of the entire Canadian Blind Hockey community, we wish Tyler and the rest of Team Canada the very best of luck — Go Canada Go! We look forward to welcoming McGregor back to Canada as we host the 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament, March 20–22, at the Mattamy Athletic Centre.

ABOUT CANADIAN BLIND HOCKEY: Canadian Blind Hockey is a national registered charity that changes the lives of children, youth, and adults who are blind or partially sighted through local, regional, and national Blind Hockey programs, camps, and tournaments. Canadian Blind Hockey programs are made possible by our National Program Partner the CNIB Foundation and generous donors and sponsors across Canada.  For more information please visit canadianblindhockey.com.

For media inquiries please contact melcarrey@blindicehockey.com 416-526-8114

You asked, we listened! We’ve heard your requests for more styles and options for Canadian Blind Hockey’s official apparel. For us to keep up with demand, you will now have the chance to pre-order merchandise until February 20th, 2026.

For the very first time, we are selling customizable Canadian Blind Hockey jerseys where you can add your name and number and really show that you are a proud member of the Canadian Blind Hockey Team!

Pickup Dates: March 20–22, 2026 (10 am – 5pm daily)
Location: Mattamy Athletic Centre (Information & Raffle Table on 4th Floor East Concourse)

Steps:
• Place your order in advance and ensure you can pick it up in Toronto during the tournament
• Select your items and sizes
• Pick up your apparel at the tournament No other option is available. We will have limited merchandise available in person with no guarantees.

Form: https://pci.jotform.com/form/260275115513247

Please share with all of your family and friends planning on attending the tournament so they don’t miss out.

The Massimo DeMontis Memorial Scholarship honours the life, leadership, and lasting impact of Massimo DeMontis – an honoured member of the Canadian Blind Hockey Hall of Fame and passionate advocate, teammate, and builder of the Blind Hockey community. Massimo embodied courage, mentorship, and an unwavering belief in the power of sport to change lives, especially the lives of his sons Mark and Luca. His commitment to helping young athletes continues to inspire every corner of the Blind Hockey movement. Nothing made Massimo smile more than watching youth play hockey, especially young Blind Hockey players.

In his memory, this scholarship supports one youth Blind Hockey player annually in their pursuit of either their post-secondary goals or development as a Blind Hockey player. Each year, the award will recognize a young athlete who demonstrates Massimo’s values: leadership on and off the ice, dedication to their community, resilience in the face of challenges, and a commitment to personal growth.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be an active youth Blind Hockey player aged 16 -26  currently registered in a Canadian Blind Hockey program, event, camp, or sanctioned team
• Be enrolled in high school or enrolled or accepted to a recognized post-secondary program (university, college, trade school, or vocational program)
• Demonstrate leadership, sportsmanship, and community involvement
• Be a Canadian resident

How to Apply

Applicants must submit the online application form along with one letter of reference (coach, teacher, mentor, or community leader)

All applications are due by Friday February 20, 2026 and will be reviewed by the Massimo DeMontis Scholarship committee. The winner will be announced at the 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament Children and Youth Awards Ceremony on Sunday March 22, 2026.

Apply via this google form

Blind Hockey changes lives. Period.

Increased confidence, improved physical and mental health, and a greater sense of belonging and community are just some of the immeasurable benefits of participating in Blind Hockey programs.

It’s no secret that 2025 has been our best year yet: more programs, more events, and more participants means that Canadian Blind Hockey’s life-changing impact is at an all-time high.

Our on-ice success also means significantly more costs: more Blind Hockey pucks, more ice time, and more requests for support through our financial assistance program means that we need to raise more funds than ever to ensure that we can continue to make hockey accessible for all Canadians who are blind or visually impaired.

In order to keep up with the demand for our programs we need to raise $100,000 in support of life-changing Blind Hockey programming between now and the end of the season.

All donors receive a charitable tax receipt, and those who support at the Bronze Level ($50) and above will be celebrated on the Donor-Wall-of-Fame at the 2026 Canadian National Blind Hockey Tournament in Toronto from March 20 – 22.

Thank you for supporting Blind Hockey in Canada!

2026 Eastern Regional Blind Hockey Tournament is the 1^st Blind Hockey Tournament Ever in New Brunswick!

Canadian Blind Hockey is thrilled to announce that the 2026 Eastern Regional Blind Hockey Tournament presented by the CNIB Foundation will take place as part of this season’s Hockey Day in Canada celebrations in Moncton. This will be the first-ever Blind Hockey tournament in the province of New Brunswick and will take place at the Moncton Coliseum from January 16 – 18^th, 2026.

The Eastern Regional Blind Hockey Tournament will be a two-team three-game series featuring up to 34 players from across Canada. Each of the four Atlantic Provinces will be represented by players from the hometown Moncton SeeCats, the Nova Scotia SeeKings, the Newfoundland Eye-Landers, as well as players from PEI.

In addition to the tournament, Canadian Blind Hockey will be hosting a Try Blind Hockey event to introduce local children and youth who are blind or partially sighted to the Para sport on Friday, January 16 following game 1.

Canadian Blind Hockey and the local Moncton SeeCats Blind Hockey team invite the entire Moncton community to come out to this free event. As an added bonus, fans who attend Game #1 at 10:00 am on Friday, January 16 will witness Hockey Night in Canada’s Kelly Hrudey drop the ceremonial opening puck and then have the chance to get their picture taken with the 4 Nations Face-Off Cup that Team Canada won last February!

The Para sport of Blind Hockey is played by athletes with 10% vision or less using an adapted puck that is larger than a traditional puck and makes noise. The 2026 Eastern Regionals features 8 members of the undefeated Canadian National Blind Hockey Team including Moncton natives Simon Richard and Jonathan Trzop.

“Having the Eastern Regional Tournament in my hometown of Moncton is truly a remarkable honour”, reflects Simon Richard, Member of Canadian Blind Hockey National Team and President of the Moncton See Cats. “The connection to Hockey Day in Canada is extra special, and a unique opportunity that not only showcases our passion for hockey but also highlights the incredible potential within our Blind Hockey community. I can’t wait to see how this event inspires others and strengthens our ties to our sport.”

All Blind Hockey games are FREE to attend and will be broadcast live on our Youtube page.

2026 Eastern Regional Blind Hockey Tournament at Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada, Moncton NB:

Friday January 16                        

10:00am           12:00pm           Eastern Regionals opening ceremonies

information.

Saturday January 17                   

10:00am            12:00pm          Eastern Regionals Game #1

4:00pm             6:00pm             Eastern Regionals Game #2

Sunday January 18                      

10:00am            12:00pm           Eastern Regionals Game #3

Arena address: Moncton Coliseum 377 Killam Dr, Moncton, NB E1C 3T1

ROSTERS:

Thank you to our partners

Canadian Blind Hockey programs are supported nationally by the CNIB Foundation, Electra Health, Canucks for Kids Fund, the Daniel Family Foundation, and Manion.  Programs The 2026 Eastern Regional Blind Hockey Tournament is supported by community partners the City of Moncton and Destination Moncton Dieppe.