Case study
Colleen Swifte
Army veteran, Invictus Games competitor
Brisbane, QLD
overview
Growing up in Brisbane, Colleen always enjoyed sports, despite her not being involved in any clubs. This all changed during service. Colleen joined the Australian Army in 1999 and became a Signaller.
While serving, Colleen started a women’s rugby team at one of her units and played the sport then. She has also spent time as an army reservist.
challenge
After discharging from the Army in 2006 with a knee and shoulder injury, Colleen was left feeling frustrated with her body, which could no longer do the things it could do before and during her service. Colleen also struggled with her mental health and was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to her service.
Journey
Colleen decided to take up cycling post-service after seeing the positive impact the sport had on other veterans in her area. Whilst this was helpful in her psychical journey, with the cycling helping to strengthen her knee post surgeries, the mental benefits were amazing for Colleen.
She has developed strong friendships within her cycling community, which has been great for her mental recovery.
today
Inspired by Team Australia during the Invictus Games Sydney 2018, Colleen decided to apply for the Adaptive Sport Program. She felt that the team environment would be a safe place for her to develop her fitness and provide a foundation for her ongoing participation in sport, which has been an essential factor in her recovery journey.
She was honoured to represent Team Australia in both the Invictus Games in The Hague (2022) and Dusseldorf (2023) in Cycling, Indoor Rowing, Wheelchair Basketball and Sitting Volleyball. Cycling, which she calls her ‘first love’ saw her win a gold and bronze medal, which Colleen accepted with pride.
Colleen remains an active member of her local sporting community, demonstrating that an Invictus Games is one step on a lifelong path to health.
Unconquered [to me] means not giving up and, if something goes wrong, having the courage to keep going.”
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Only 50 DAYS TO GO until @invictusgames25 kicks off in Vancouver Whistler!
Team Australia have been busy putting the finishing touches on their training ahead of competition in Canada!
Not long now! Drop the team some words of encouragement in the comments. 💛🖤
@weareinvictusgames
We partner with @sportsadf to deliver Team Australia to the Invictus Games.
In an Invictus Games first, veterans will compete in winter sports at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. Hear from Invictus Games alumni and Para Athlete Matt Brumby as he introduces us to Nordic Skiing and Biathlon.
Nordic Skiing challenges competitors to race across rugged terrain using classic skiing techniques, showcasing their stamina and mental toughness in this test of endurance. Split between novices and advance skiers, competitors will race between 750m to 1500m.
The Biathlon adds a twist, combining the physical demands of cross-country skiing with the precision of target shooting, where competitors will use electronic shooting systems to test their focus to hit every mark.
@matty.brumby
#nordicskiing #biathlon #unconqueredtogether #unconquered
Congratulations to those members of Team Veteran who raced at the 2024 ACT Veterans Indoor Rowing in Shoalhaven, NSW earlier this month.
Veteran Engagement Coordinator Megan was on hand cheering on the team, inspired by how close this group have become by participating in regular indoor rowing throughout the year.
"It was amazing to witness the camaraderie, determination, and sheer effort on display."
Our local engagement team facilitates sporting opportunities like this regularly, to find one near you, join your local Facebook group via the link in bio.
#indoorrowing #veteransport #invictusaustralia #invictusaus #supportavetetan #veteransupport