Invictus Australia and NEC Australia bring veterans to the Essendon stage
Participation in sport, through playing, volunteering or event spectating, offers many benefits for current and former serving veterans and their loved ones. The shared experience of cheering on a team, the camaraderie of a packed stadium, and the excitement of the game, all contribute to a common feeling of social connection and improved wellbeing.
This concept was in full display at last week’s Essendon and Adelaide AFL match at Marvel Stadium, where one of our Premier Partners, NEC Australia, generously shared their match day sponsorship with us.
With the theme of the match being Inspiring a Brighter World, it was great to be able to give members of the defence community a once in a lifetime experience that gave them a chance to connect with both their loved ones and other veterans and families over a game of AFL!
guard of honour for ESSENDOn
Down on the field, Invictus Australia was able to offer over 20 members of the defence community a chance to stand shoulder-to-shoulder and form the guard of honour for the Essendon team as they ran out onto the field. While all participants had attended an Invictus Australia local sporting opportunity previously, the group largely met for the first time at the match, however soon bonded after discussing their shared excitement.
“It was an incredibly moving experience to be a part of the Guard of Honour,” shared Chris Burson, Invictus Australia Veteran Engagement Manager. “There was a real sense of camaraderie and shared pride amongst the defence community members who participated. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the veterans as they high-fived the players was truly special.”
Local Veteran Jason reflected on the night post-match, which he said was an exciting experience and a fantastic opportunity to bond with this son Sam, who he brought along. “Sam and I had the privilege of attending Essendon Bombers vs Adelaide Crows in a nail-biting match. This was Sam’s first attendance to a live match which has now set the bar high for his next match, seeing his reaction was so fulfilling.”
Connecting with the team
Two foster children, under the care of a veteran excited to give the kids an unforgettable memory, had the opportunity to run through the guard of honour alongside the team.
Initially nervous, the children were reassured after meeting the captain before the game. They ended up running through the Invictus Australia and NEC Essendon banner arm-in-arm with each other and the players, a moment that truly reflected the supportive nature of the Invictus and sporting community.
“The look on their faces as they ran out onto the field was priceless,” said Chris. “It was a moment they, and everyone watching, will never forget. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact that sport can have on young people, fostering confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.”
Being part of the coin toss and Ball Delivery
Warrior Games 2024 alumnus Brett Lewis had the honour of completing the coin toss, while Rye Shawcroft (Warrior Games 2019 and Invictus Games 2018 alumnus) handled the ball delivery. No stranger to large scale sporting events, Brett and Rye were delighted to be back on the sporting stage with the Invictus Australia community that has provided such positive experiences from them and allowed them to keep a connection to veterans and families.
“What an amazing night,” said Brett. “Apart from the opportunity to toss the coin, more friends and amazing memories were made thanks to the power of sport in bringing people together.”
A Heartfelt Thank You to NEC Australia
NEC Australia exemplified the spirit of partnership, donating half of their game day sponsorship to Invictus Australia. This gesture allowed us to invite a special group of defence community members to participate in the action.
Two Invictus Australia staff members, Toni Cumpston and Charlotte Hayes, along with new board member Sonia Bijelic, joined CEO & President Jason Price, Chief Transformation Officer David Borean, and VP Marketing & Communications Kylie Smith from NEC Australia at the pre-game President’s Club to discuss how impactful their ongoing partnership is for veterans and families.
“The pre-game experience at the President’s Club was a fantastic way to connect with the NEC Australia team and the wider Australian sporting community. It gave us the opportunity to explain the positive impact sporting opportunities like this have on the overall wellbeing of veterans and family members,” said Toni Cumpston, Director, Community Participation and Impact at Invictus Australia. “We are incredibly grateful for NEC’s generosity and for creating such a memorable experience for the defence community.”
Collaborating to support the defence community
This event showcased the powerful effects collaboration can have on veterans and families, with a range of Invictus Australia’s stakeholders attending and assisting, from sporting and corporate partners to ex-service organisations.
IPAR, another Invictus Australia Premier Partner, played a crucial role in connecting Veteran Engagement Manager Chris with a defence family of four who attended the event. Soldier On, an ex-service organisation, put Invictus Australia in touch with a veteran staff member who was excited about this opportunity. Additionally, RSL members from across Victoria, who had previously participated in Invictus Australia events, came together for this special occasion. This collaborative effort highlights the strength of the veteran support network and the importance of shared experiences in fostering well-being.
AFL and Essendon also played a vital role in creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for the group. Their support and enthusiasm contributed to the smiling faces of the veterans and families.
Memories Made, Bonds Strengthened
The experience at the Essendon vs Adelaide match was truly impactful for the Invictus Australia community members who participated.
“This wasn’t just about watching a game,” concluded Chris. “It was about creating connections, fostering a sense of community, and celebrating the resilience of those who have served. The atmosphere was incredible, and the generosity of NEC Australia allowed us to share this special experience with a group of very deserving people. We are incredibly grateful for their support.”
Invictus Australia extends a heartfelt thank you to NEC Australia for their incredible generosity and for making this a truly unforgettable event for our defence community.
Our Veteran Engagement team runs events such as these across the country each day. To keep up to date with what is happening in your area, join your local Facebook group.
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