Sport isn’t just valuable for veterans and their families at international events like the Invictus Games—it plays a crucial role in local communities and everyday life beyond the competitive environment. Whether through adaptive sport, community leagues, or recreational activities, sport provides members of the defence community with a sense of belonging, purpose, and physical and mental wellbeing. It fosters camaraderie, resilience and recovery, making a lasting impact far beyond the arena of major events. 

For alumnus Craig Ball, the Invictus Games Dusseldorf 2023 was an eye-opening experience, allowing him to rediscover his purpose and the importance of keeping connected through sport within his community.  

Craig’s Story 

Serving in the Australian Army on and off for 17 years, Craig’s eventual discharge from the military saw him dealing with the struggles of transitioning to civilian life. He found himself battling PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, anxiety and physical injuries that altered his life drastically. 

An avid sports lover throughout his life, Craig grew up playing rugby and skateboarding before taking up swimming while serving. When he needed an outlet for his stress post-service, he discovered the healing power of sport.

“The rowing machine, circuit training and running have helped me clear my head. I find the rower acts as a pump to expel negative energy from my body. Yoga has been vital in allowing negative energy from following traumatic experiences to leave my body.” 

Craig found solace in physical movement and the camaraderie of a team. Joining Team Australia for the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 reignited his sense of identity and belonging. But more importantly, it showed him the need to stay engaged in sport beyond the Games. 

Reflecting on the Invictus Games 

For Craig, the true impact of the Games experience was realising the value of staying engaged in sport long-term. 

“The biggest impact the experience had on me was the feeling of coming home having completed a significant step in the transition process. plus how important it was for me to be involved in community.”

Craig continued:

Community is a vital aspect of life and needs to be embraced to help end isolation.” 

CRAIG BALL

VETERAN & INVICTUS GAMES DUSSELDORF 2023 COMPETITOR

This renewed sense of connection became something Craig was determined to maintain and something he wanted to introduce to others. 

Staying Connected through sport 

Craig came back from Germany with a fresh perspective on the importance of sport, community and how this can positively impact veterans and family members. He shares; 

I learnt significant lessons about inclusion and understanding that I now take throughout life, aswell as an understanding on how sport and exercise impacts mental health and the community.”

CRAIG BALL

VETERAN & INVICTUS GAMES DUSSELDORF 2023 COMPETITOR

Craig worked on how he could incorporate the sense of community through sport into activities he was already a part of, which is where he connected with Invictus Australia Veteran Engagement Manager Jye. He became part of Team Veteran and competed on the NSW True Grit courses in both 2023 and 2024. 

“I’ve been competing in True Grit since 2015, but being part of Team Veteran made it even more meaningful,” he shares. “Having a regular event to train for is significant and competing alongside fellow veterans is great fun. It’s always a challenge that pushes me to improve each year.” 

True Grit, like the Invictus Games, provided Craig with a sense of purpose, camaraderie and motivation to continue pushing his limits while staying engaged with the defence community. 

Giving Back Through Sport and Mental Health Advocacy 

Realising the power of sport to connect and the need in his local area to bring people together, Craig founded Central Coast Men’s Walk and Talk. The initiative encourages men to come together, share experiences and use exercise as a tool for mental wellbeing. He attributes the creation of this initiative to his newfound understanding and perspective gained through his time before and during the Invictus Games.

Sport has given me a new mission post-service. It’s helped me realise that I’m not alone – there’s a community of veterans facing similar challenges.”

CRAIG BALL

VETERAN & INVICTUS GAMES DUSSELDORF 2023 COMPETITOR

Whether through challenges of an obstacle course, the focus of an archery target or the rhythm of a rowing machine, Craig has found ways to channel his energy, connect with others and give back through sport.   

Like many veterans, Craig understands the importance of keeping connected in community and that sport is a great way to facilitate this. For him, sport and physical activity are not just about fitness, but about being part of a supportive community, one that allows everyone to lift each other up, reducing the isolation that can be felt post service.   

Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group

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