Humboldt Broncos bus crash survivor Wassermann named to Paralympic rowing team

Jacob Wassermann's lifelong dream of representing his country at the highest level in sport, to wear the maple leaf on a global athletic stage, has finally become a reality.

Rowing Canada made it official on Thursday as Wassermann is part of Team Canada going to the Paralympics.

"It's still a little surreal," he told CBC Sports. "I know we're like two months out at this point, but it still almost doesn't feel real that I started this journey not that long ago and I'm getting the opportunity to compete at the biggest stage and wear the maple leaf.

"I can't believe it. I'm very grateful for all of it."

Wassermann, 24, is one of 13 people who survived the horrific Humboldt Broncos bus crash tragedy in 2018, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. He was the Broncos' No. 1 goaltender when the crash happened.

"This tragedy happened and it was on a big stage. We were junior hockey players, a bunch of 18 to 20 year olds who were trying to live out our dreams, right? And it happened," he said. "Life moves on and we've all grown from it and are all super appreciative of the support that the world has provided."

Sport has played a crucial role throughout his life and was a pivotal part of his healing process. Wassermann started taking Para rowing seriously about a year ago and in a very short time has excelled in the sport. 

WATCH | Wassermann finds freedom on the water:

It became apparent quickly as he rowed across the South Saskatchewan River in Saskatoon with ease that rowing came somewhat naturally to him. The initial goal was to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.

But Wassermann, whose family lives in Humboldt, Sask., had other plans — through hard work and an unwavering commitment he's now headed to Paris to represent Canada in the PR1 men's single event.

"For 18 years I was going to be a pro hockey player. That was the one goal and it had to change and it was sort of difficult for sure at first, but I really learned if you keep going forward with the dreams that you had, they'll work out for you," he said.

And through it all, Wassmann's wife Madison, his parents, coaches, and people throughout the hockey community have supported Jacob. He says he's been overwhelmed by the support.

"It's been so special to see the support and the excitement from so many people, like everybody from around here, from around home and and then around the world that I've never even met before," he said. 

"To have what feels like the whole country behind me is really special."