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TORONTO — More than any other event at the Parapan American Games, wheelchair rugby is Canada’s game.

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The sport was invented in Winnipeg, four decades ago. It is making its Parapan Am debut in Mississauga, starting Saturday. And when the gold-medal match is played August 14, the home team will be favoured to win.

“We’re going for gold,” said David Willsie, a 17-year veteran of Canada’s national team.

“We know it’s going to be a battle. We’re going to have to fight for every inch that’s on that court. People that read this, if they can get a ticket somehow, they better get their butts out there. It’s going to be fun.”

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In total, 15 Parapan Am sports will be contested over the coming week, each and every one a qualifier for next summer’s Paralympic Games in Rio. Canada has taken notice, sending 216 athletes — its largest-ever Parapan squad — to Toronto.