The energy was high in the arena as Team Australia’s Wheeling Diggers made their mark at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. Demonstrating exceptional teamwork, they coordinated their screens and ran clear paths to victory, securing two impressive wins against Team Nigeria (18-9) and Team Unconquered (17-5). These performances positioned them as strong contenders in this year’s competition.

The Wheeling Diggers came out hard and fast in an epic wheelchair rugby semi-final, but Team UK emerged victorious with a score of 28-9, sending Team Australia to the bronze medal match. In a fiercely contested battle against Team USA, the Wheeling Diggers gave it their all, creating unforgettable memories with their teammates and loved ones on the center court at the Vancouver Convention Centre. In the end, Team USA took the bronze, with a final score of 27-20.

Amongst those leading the charge in the team, was Callan McLean, whose journey to the Games has been nothing short of inspiring. His leadership and determination continue to motivate his teammates and his family and friends around him.

Callan’s Journey to the Games

Before his injury, sport was everything to Callan McLean. As a former Navy veteran, Callan was deeply involved in the physical demands of his service. However, overuse injuries in his knees, along with mental health struggles and other musculoskeletal injuries, led to his medical discharge from the Royal Australian Navy in 2023.

“Sport was my whole life,” says Callan, reflecting on his athletic background. Prior to his injuries, he competed in swimming, soccer, and Aussie rules. But his love for sports was halted when his body could no longer keep up with the demands of high-impact sport. The introduction of adaptive sports into Callan’s life has been nothing short of transformative. A sport he never imagined he would participate in, wheelchair rugby, has became a new passion.

Finding adaptive sport and new methods to keep fit and get my sporting fix has allowed me to not only improve my physical fitness once again, but to also improve my mental health.”

CALLAN MCLEAN

INVICTUS GAMES VANCOUVER WHISTLER 2025 TEAM AUSTRALIA COMPETITOR

THE IMPORTANCE OF A TEAM

Reflecting on the team’s performance so far, Callan is proud of the collective effort on display. “That competitive vibe we get on the court is unmatched,” he says. The atmosphere on the court is charged with energy, as the team continually motivates each other to push harder and perform better. “I think people would be amazed at how much we do pick each other up. Everyone is continually motivating each other and pushing each other to be better.”

For Callan, the team dynamic is a crucial part of the experience. It’s more than just about playing the game; it’s about the support and camaraderie that drives the team forward. This sense of teamwork has been a vital part of Callan’s own recovery journey. “Not being able to play team sport for years was certainly quite hard to get through but getting back with a team has been amazing,” he reflects.

The Importance of Family to Callan

One of the most powerful aspects of Callan’s journey is the support of his family. His wife, Shana, and their two young sons, Xavier and Charles, have been his backbone throughout his rehabilitation and Invictus Games journey. Callan’s motivation to succeed on the court is fueled by his family, and they have been an integral part of his path to the Games.

“To look over and see my two young boys is probably the best motivation you can possibly have,” he says. His family has been with him every step of the way, cheering him on and providing the emotional support needed to continue pushing forward. “My wife has been a massive part of my journey, and my two sons played a major part of my recovery. To have them here to support me and see me compete is amazing, but for them to experience it is just as great, I think.”

A reignited passion: beyond the games

Looking to the future, Callan is excited about the possibilities that adaptive sports hold for him beyond the Invictus Games.

Being exposed to so many adaptive sports has really opened my eyes to what I can actually do after the Games.”

CALLAN MCLEAN
INVICTUS GAMES VANCOUVER WHISTLER 2025 TEAM AUSTRALIA COMPETITOR

His experience at the Invictus Games has reignited his passion for sport, and he is now exploring new avenues in wheelchair rugby and adaptive swimming. “Taking part in wheelchair rugby and some more adaptive swimming is definitely on the cards for me.”

While the Invictus Games have been a transformative experience for Callan, they are just the beginning. He is excited to continue his journey in adaptive sports and remains dedicated to improving his physical fitness and mental health, through the power of sport.

Keep up to date with all the action

The Invictus Games is an international, adaptive multi-sports competition for serving and former military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service. Team Australia is delivered in partnership between Invictus Australia and the Australian Defence Force, and consists of 33 competitors.  

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About the Invictus Games

The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Invictus Games takes place from the 8th – 16th February in Canada. Invictus Australia, in partnership with the Australian Defence Force, are supporting 33 former and current serving competitors as part of Team Australia.

The Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event for serving and former serving military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service. Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, is the Patron of the Invictus Games. The Games uses the healing power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and celebrate the crucial role played by family and friends.

About Invictus Australia: Invictus Australia encourages veterans and their families to connect and engage with their communities through sport. Whether participating or volunteering at grassroots level, to competing internationally at an Invictus or Warrior Games, Invictus Australia leverages the power of sport to proactively foster good health and aid in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration. Invictus Australia promotes the physical, social and emotional benefits of sport for all, and shine a light on the unique needs of younger veterans, particularly the challenges associated with transitioning from military to civilian life.