Ken to carry Canada flag

Born in Toronto, Pereira’s international sporting career is remarkable. He has earned more than 300 caps, achieving that milestone at this year’s hockey World Cup in New Delhi February-March.

It will surely be an emotional evening for Pereira when he leads the 255-member strong Canadian contingent at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

“It’s especially sweet because it’s the birthplace of my parents. We still have a lot of family over there and I’m sure they’ll come out and support the Canadian team.”

Pereira said initially he “couldn’t believe” his ears when informed that he had been selected by Commonwealth Games Canada as the flag bearer.

“I thought they’d called the wrong number. We have so many great athletes on the Canadian team that it’s a very special honour to be selected to represent them all.

“I literally have goose bumps every time I think about walking into the main stadium in Delhi carrying the Maple Leaf.”

Pereira has competed in three Commonwealth Games, two Olympic Games, four Pan Am Games, and two World Cups.