The 20-year-old claimed her first international medal at a World Cup in Hungary last year and has gone from strength to strength, earning a silver at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games.

Gagné has already secured two bronze and one silver medal in international events this year, which has seen her receive a place in the Canadian team.

She is now set to compete in the women’s under 52 kilogram event and Gagné will be joined in the team by veteran judoka Tony Walby.

“Priscilla has enjoyed international success over the past couple of seasons and she’s gained a lot of confidence heading in to her first Paralympic Games,” said Andrzej Sadej, Judo Canada’s sports director and Para-judo head coach.

“Tony is one of the most experienced Para-judokas in the field and he plans to capitalise on that in Rio.”

Walby, who previously won 12 medals at senior national Championships as an able bodied athlete before his sight deteriorated, will be hoping to improve on his seventh place finish at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

The 42-year-old has claimed bronze medals at both the Brazil and German World Cups this year and will be hopeful of another podium finish in the men’s under 90kg event.

“Congratulations to Priscilla and Tony,’’ said Chantal Petitclerc, Canada’s Chef de Mission.

‘’We are fielding two very accomplished para-judo athletes for the Games who have delivered international success in the past.

“The hard work and dedication they have put into the sport continues to pay off.’’

Para-judo competition is scheduled to take place at the Games from September 8 to 10.