The news marks a milestone for Canadian sport, placing in a key role someone who has not only represented the country at the highest levels of competition but has also shown an active commitment to public service since his election as a Member of Parliament in 2019.

Van Koeverden, who was recently re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Burlington North–Milton West, brings a unique perspective to the federal government: that of an elite athlete who understands from within the impact of sport on society. His sprint canoeing career includes four Olympic medals, a historic gold in Athens 2004, and multiple podium finishes at World Championships and Pan American Games.

An athlete serving both sport and country

At 43, Adam van Koeverden has combined his sporting legacy with a rising political career. His breakthrough at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, where he won gold in the men’s K1 500 meters —Canada’s first title in the discipline in two decades— made him a national icon. That same year, he also claimed bronze in the K1 1000 meters, becoming the only Canadian to stand on the podium twice at those Games. He went on to win two more silver medals: at Beijing 2008 (K1 500m) and London 2012 (K1 1000m), before ending his career after competing at Rio 2016.

His appointment has been welcomed by sports organizations such as Canoe Kayak Canada, the Paralympic Committee and the Canadian Olympic Committee, who praised his commitment to athletes and his understanding of sport as a tool for social transformation. “We believe Secretary of State van Koeverden will bring an important voice to Parliament,” they stated in a joint release. In his new role, he is expected to promote policies that strengthen the Canadian sports system, representing with knowledge and passion the interests of those who make sport their calling.