Young Canadian sports stars poised to take the next step in 2023

As 2023 approaches, a look back at some of the success stories in Canadian sports warrants recognition for the exciting new stars of the future.

The Canadian Press dives into Canada's breakout stars of 2022 to keep an eye out for in the years to come.

The Toronto native wasn't an unknown entering 2022, but McIntosh brightened her star on just about every stage she could. After an Olympic showing that saw her finish fourth in two events last year, the 16-year-old picked up four medals (two gold, one silver, one bronze) in her first world championships.

A couple of weeks later, McIntosh added another six medals at the Commonwealth Games (two gold, three silver, one bronze). With another world championships coming in July, McIntosh may be in line for a few more medals as the Paris Olympics await her in 2024.

WATCH | McIntosh wins butterfly gold at worlds:

The 17-year-old, who is expected to be the top pick of the 2023 NHL draft, exploded onto the scene in the 2021-22 season playing for the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League. After opening the 2021 portion of the season with 24 points in 24 games, Bedard had an impressive 76 points in 38 games to finish the season with 51 goals and 49 assists. He also helped Canada win gold at the 2022 world junior championship, contributing eight points (four goals, four assists) in seven games.

Bedard has only raised his level of play since, with 27 goals and 64 points in 28 WHL games this season. He will help Canada try to retain its title at the 2023 world juniors.

WATCH | Bedard pots pair in pre-tournament win over Finland:

The Montreal native enjoyed a quantum leap in the college ranks after a solid 2020-21 freshman season at the University of Arizona, where he was named to the