david galla

DoD Warrior Games 2024 Team Australia Competitor

ADF service: I joined the Army in 2009 as a Rifleman in the Royal Australian Infantry. I discharged in 2013. 

Other information: I am a carpenter. My partner and I have a son who is seven, twin daughters who are four and a newborn.

Age: 40

Hometown: Terrigal, New South Wales

Current town: Berkeley Vale, New South Wales

Competing in: Athletics, indoor rowing and powerlifting.

What is the nature of your injury or illness? I have injuries to both my knees, right shoulder, lower back and mental health.

Sport background: I played rugby league and did taekwando, kick boxing and athletics growing up.

What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Getting back into the gym has got me moving again and helped me build strength following my injuries. Being active again has changed my life and given me something to work towards. I feel like my life has changed dramatically from getting back into sport and would encourage others who are in similar positions to do the same.  

How did you feel when you were told you made the Warrior Games team? It was unbelievable, I don’t think it’s really hit me. It feels surreal.

What is your greatest achievement to date? My family, nothing beats that.

Why did you apply for Warrior Games? I went back to footy and I needed something else to work towards and challenge myself in. I knew it would put me out of my comfort zone. I have adopted a mentality of moving forward and it gives me a way to move forward with my rehabilitation.

What will “winning” look like for you at the Games? Making my kids proud, whether I win or lose. My son is really interested in the Games and has been asking questions and telling others about how proud he is of his dad.

Who is supporting you at the Games? My family will be cheering me on from Australia along with my rehabilitation team. They have all been an important part of my journey and I am grateful to everyone for their ongoing support.