The Olympian has won two bronze medals at the able-bodied Judo World Championships – at under-72 kilograms in 1997 and at under-78kg in 2003.

Silva is also a two-time champion from the Pan American Games for Brazil and is excited about the new challenge.

"It's been great, because I love to train and, without the responsibility of the old competition routine, it is a lot more enjoyable for me," Silva said. 

"I end up getting lighter in spirit also, to pass positive energy to them. 

"So, it's an exchange."

Brazil won four silver medals in judo at their home Rio 2016 Paralympics.

Alana Maldonado, the women's under-70 kilograms world champion, is among those who have praised the contribution of Silva so far.