Before their selection for the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, Nigel Coutts, Jo Lovell, Sergeant Emily Lahey, and Luke McCallum had never envisioned themselves competing in Wheelchair Curling. However, this dynamic team has embraced the sport with open arms, transforming from novices to formidable competitors. 

For competitor Sergeant Emily Lahey, the complexity of Wheelchair Curling was something that took her by surprise. “What might seem like an easy game from the outside is, in reality, a challenging mix of skill, technique, and strategy.”

“We’ve had a steep learning curve,” Sergeant Lahey continued, “adapting to new skills like stone throwing technique, understanding curling terminology, mastering hand signals, and learning the rules of the game.” 

According to Sergeant Lahey, it was the team’s connectedness and support of one another that allowed them to embrace this surprisingly complicated sport. “Despite somewhat limited opportunities for training, our Wheelchair Curling team has come together with determination and a shared sense of purpose. From the outset, we’ve focused on building trust and camaraderie by setting clear goals and encouraging one another.” 

Keep reading to hear more about what led Sergeant Lahey to compete as part of Team Australia, as well as how the team performed on the ice.  

Emily’s journey to the Invictus Games: Harnessing strength and resilience 

Diagnosed with terminal cancer affecting her sinuses, skull, and brain, Sergeant Lahey has faced immense physical and mental challenges. The loss of vision in her left eye and the effects of her illness have not deterred her spirit. Instead, she has used sport as a vital part of her rehabilitation and wellbeing. 

“Exercise has been a big part of my rehabilitation, while also benefitting my mental health and general wellbeing,” Sergeant Lahey shared.

“There was a point in time where I was unable to walk the short distance to the end of my street due to the crippling effects of chemotherapy. Since then, I have worked hard to regain physical strength and have made my physical health a priority.”

SERGEANT EMILY LAHEY

INVICTUS GAMES VANCOUVER WHISTLER 2025 TEAM AUSTRALIA COMPETITOR

Building Bonds Beyond the Ice 

Beyond the physical aspects of the sport, the camaraderie and support within the team have played a crucial role in their journey. Sergeant Lahey spoke about the profound impact of these connections: “Exposure to new skills, participating in a team sport, and connecting with my fellow Team Australia competitors has been instrumental in supporting my rehabilitation. Being part of Team Australia has provided me with a profound sense of belonging and purpose, connecting me with others who truly understand the unique challenges that come with injury and illness.” 

The shared experiences and mutual support have fostered resilience and accountability, creating a tight-knit team that thrives both on and off the ice. 

Teamwork and Triumphs: Day 2 Performance Highlights 

Despite being complete novices to the sport less than 12 months ago, Sergeant Lahey and her teammates displayed determination and synergy on the ice. Taking on The United States and Italy (twice) in their pool matches, Team Australia put teamwork at the forefront, defeating the United States 2-1 and drawing with Italy 1-1. In their final game, they faced Italy once more, final score 3-1 to Italy.

Day 2 also saw Team Australia continue their wheelchair basketball campaign, where they took on the United States of America in a gruelling match, with USA taking the win 11-4. The stands were loud, as Team Australia friends and family supporters gave the competitors on court the drive to continue their strong defensive game.

Even though Team Australia’s Wheelchair Basketball campaign has come to an end, basketball team captain Torben Louwen-Skovdam, shared his pride of the team; “We had no expectations coming out here, but the team has really shown up over the past two games and gave it their all.” 

Looking Ahead: Post-Games Plans 

As the Games continue, the team remains focused on their performance and the bonds they’ve built. Sergeant Lahey shared her aspirations beyond the Games: “Ultimately, the bonds we’ve formed have created a space where we feel empowered to challenge ourselves, celebrate progress, and navigate setbacks together. It’s not just about getting physically stronger or mastering new skills; it’s about rebuilding confidence, rediscovering identity and camaraderie, and finding a renewed sense of purpose that I hope will extend well beyond the Games.” 

With Team Australia’s Wheelchair Curling campaign coming to a close, Sergeant Lahey now shifts focus to the other sports she will be competing in; alpine skiing, skeleton and swimming. 

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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Keep up to date with all the action

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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.