July 21, 2025
Baseball Australia and Invictus Australia Step Up to the Plate for Defence Community Health and Wellbeing
Invictus Australia and Baseball Australia have formalised a new partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishing a shared commitment to supporting the wellbeing, inclusion, and connection of Australia’s defence community through sport.
Baseball Australia is the governing body for all levels of baseball throughout Australia, a recognised member of the World Baseball Softball Confederation and the Australian Sports Commission and the owner of the Australian Baseball League. They coordinate and support their seven state and territory associations; each are a crucial touchpoint in growing baseball and supporting national programs locally.
This partnership reflects the shared vision of Invictus Australia and Baseball Australia to harness the power of sport as a vehicle for connection, purpose, and community. Both organisations recognise the wide-ranging benefits of team sports like baseball supporting physical health, strengthening mental wellbeing, fostering inclusion, and creating a strong sense of identity, belonging and community.
Connecting Communities
This collaboration opens new opportunities for veterans and their families to give baseball a go. Through this initiative members of the defence community can develop new skills and build meaningful connections with others in a sport that is welcoming and provides opportunities for everyone to get involved, whether through playing, coaching or officiating, or being part of the crew behind the scenes that keep the clubs thriving. Sport provides an environment that supports structure, routine, and connection, key ingredients in navigating life after service.
Baseball encourages movement, focus, teamwork, and shared purpose. Its inclusive nature makes it accessible to people of all ages and abilities, particularly those seeking recovery, re-connection, or a renewed sense of direction after service. Through this partnership, baseball becomes a pathway for the defence community to connect, participate, and thrive on and off the field and provides the opportunity to find a new tribe.
Military Ties to Baseball
Baseball’s connection to the military dates back decades. During World War II, thousands of American servicemen stationed in Australia brought the sport with them, playing games on military bases and inviting locals to join or spectate. This sparked a nationwide interest that grew in the post-war years.
That connection has continued. Today, many defence personnel past and present play in community leagues, with baseball serving as a vital connector, especially in regional areas. Its strategic, social, and low-impact nature, along with the community that team sports provide., making it well-suited to those looking to stay active, engaged, and supported.
Harnessing the Power of Baseball for Community and Recovery
At the centre of this partnership is a shared commitment to offering meaningful and welcoming opportunities for veterans and their families to get involved with baseball. Baseball provides an accessible and inclusive environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together and play, fostering connection, wellbeing, and a strong sense of belonging. Clubs across Australia provide an opportunity to become part of their local community where people meet and with a shared purpose around the game, work together to make each club successful family hubs.
Baseball Australia is excited to partner with Invictus Australia, to provide an opportunity for veterans and their families to be part of our great baseball community” says Baseball Australia CEO Glenn Williams. “Baseball clubs have a great way of making people welcome and, combined with our nationwide commitment to Play Well, where everyone has a place in sport, we know we can provide a platform for people to thrive both on and off the field.”
This shared vision is already resonating within the defence community. Toni Cumpston, Director, Community Participation and Impact, reflects on the enthusiasm shown at two community events featuring baseball. The first in Western Australia and more recently in Victoria in February, were opportunities to bring the defence community together in a supportive environment.
“We’ve already seen the defence community rally behind baseball. In Western Australia the Rockingham Rams hosted our Defence Community Sports Expo last year and in February this year in Victoria the community came together for a come and try event and curtain raiser match between Team Veteran and Vic Police hosted in partnership with Baseball Australia, before the Hanwha Eagles faced off against Team Australia. The spirit of the game and Baseball’s strong commitment to community make it a natural fit for supporting veterans and their families.”
Baseball Australia’s Role in Community Engagement
With 600 clubs and a tight knit community focused on growing its national presence, Baseball Australia has a strong foundation in participation, community sport, and inclusive development. The organisation is well-equipped to help defence communities find their place in baseball.
By aligning with Invictus Australia, Baseball Australia reinforces its commitment to social impact and community development. Together, they aim to build sustainable pathways that support recovery, encourage lifelong participation, and strengthen the social fabric of communities across the country. This collaboration is a testament to the transformative power of sport in bringing people together, fostering resilience, and creating lasting change.
Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group or email support@invictusaustralia.org.
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