Dispaltro Named to Lead TO2015 Parapan American Canadian Team as Flag Bearer

Toronto, ON (August 5, 2015) – The Canadian Cerebral Palsy Sports Association (CCPSA) congratulates boccia player Marco Dispaltro (St. Jerome, QC), named today as the flag bearer for the TO2015 Parapan American Games Canadian Team.

Of the honour, interim Executive Director Jennifer Larson says, “we are thrilled that Marco is making history as the first boccia player to ever have the honour of leading Team Canada into the opening ceremonies at a Parapan Games.”, says Executive Director (acting) Jennifer Larson. “There’s no better ambassador for boccia, parasport and Canada than Marco.”

With a background in wheelchair tennis and wheelchair rugby, Dispaltro was introduced to boccia in 2010 by Head Coach Mario Delisle. He quickly made a name for himself in the sport, winning a silver medal at his first world championships in 2011 and following that with a bronze medal in BC4 pair play at the London 2012 Paralympic Games alongside teammate Josh Vander Vies (Sarnia, ON).

Currently ranked number one in the world, Dispaltro also took home gold medals in individual play at the 2014 BISFed World Open in Montréal and 2014 BISFed World Open in Povoa, Portugal.

According to Sandy Hermiston, President of the Canadian Cerebral Palsy Sports Association, “Marco is well-respected by his teammates and opponents alike for his intense commitment to daily training and his calm on court presence. His friendly and engaging presence has helped him develop positive ties and relationships with competitors all over the world.”

Dispaltro is one of the ten Canadian boccia athletes competing at the TO2015 Parapan American Games at the Abilities Centre in Whitby, Ontario between August 8th and August 11th.  Follow Marco and the team’s progress on Facebook and Twitter.