Tyler McGregor’s journey in para hockey has been marked by a remarkable transformation—from looking up to his hockey idols to becoming a captain himself. Appointed in 2019 at just 25 years old, McGregor now leads Canada’s National Para Hockey Team with humility and pride.
Growing up admiring captains like Sidney Crosby and Joe Sakic, he later drew inspiration from para hockey legends such as Greg Westlake, learning not just about athletic excellence but also about community leadership and personal integrity.
Under McGregor’s leadership, Canada clinched gold at the 2024 World Para Ice Hockey Championship in Calgary. The team is now aiming for another championship at the LECOM Harborcenter, with their sights set on the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina.
With the U.S. team having claimed four straight Paralympic golds, McGregor and his teammates are motivated to end that streak. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the road ahead, especially after securing their spot in the 2026 Games.
From Life-Altering Diagnosis to Confident Captain: A Journey of Growth and Resilience
McGregor stepped into big shoes when he succeeded Greg Westlake as captain, a transition his coach, Russ Herrington, admits came with pressure. Herrington credits McGregor’s growth to his ability to absorb the leadership qualities of veterans like Brad Bowden and Adam Dixon while developing his own style.
What started as a daunting responsibility has now become a natural role for McGregor, reflecting his maturity and authenticity as a leader.
Tyler McGregor Leads with Purpose as Cancer Survivor, Champion, and Global Para Hockey AmbassadorMcGregor’s path was drastically altered at age 15 when he was diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Initially injured during a game, the discovery of a growing mass led to the life-saving amputation of his left leg. The news devastated him and left him questioning his identity and future. Despite the emotional toll, a persistent sense of belief remained that he would find his way back to hockey—even if he didn’t yet know how.
Inspiring On and Off the Ice: Leadership, Dedication, Advocacy, and Global Impact Combined
Teammates like Liam Hickey regard McGregor as an irreplaceable part of the team, citing his discipline, resilience, and leadership as pivotal to their success. Known for his tireless work ethic and ability to uplift those around him, McGregor is more than just a skilled player—he’s a mentor and a motivator. His dedication to excellence and his ability to bring out the best in others have solidified his role as the heart of the team.
McGregor’s influence extends well beyond the rink. In 2023, he raised $100,000 for cancer research by skating 420 kilometers across Canada. He also helps grow the sport internationally, such as his recent involvement in a sled hockey camp in Mexico with U.S. captain Josh Pauls.
Coach Herrington praises McGregor’s dual commitment to high-performance sport and social impact, noting how his work in cancer advocacy and inclusive sport development sets an example for athletes everywhere.
