Francine Dudfield
Invictus Games Dusseldorf 2023 Competitor
ADF service: I joined the Australian Army as a Medic in 2004. During my career I deployed to the Middle East and the South Pacific. I enjoyed many aspects of my military service including being trained as a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear Medic, participating in the Military Skills Competition and having the opportunity to complete a specialist course with NSW Ambulance.
Current occupation: Following my career in the ADF I have worked as a nurse and a mental health support worker. Currently, I am completing a Master of Clinical Psychology with my primary research interest being the mental health and wellbeing of our current and former military and emergency service personnel and their families.
Age: 37
Home town: Melbourne, Victoria
Current town: Melbourne, Victoria
Competing in: Sitting volleyball, indoor rowing, and powerlifting.
What is the nature of your injury or illness? I have chronic pain from lower back and lower limb issues.
Sport background I have always loved playing sport. Throughout my life I have participated in many sports including AFL, hockey, soccer, boxing, CrossFit, swimming, and running.
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport has helped me improve my fitness and self-discipline and build my resilience.
What is your greatest achievement to date? Motherhood, undoubtedly, is and always will be my greatest achievement.
Why did you apply for Invictus Games? I miss playing sport, but I don’t miss the pain and long recovery that usually follows. Invictus Games offered an opportunity to form new social connections, learn new skills and have fun while competing on an international level. Being part of Team Australia will allow me to enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of sport.
What will success look like for you at the Games? Leaving the Games with memories I can cherish and inspirational stories I can share with my family and friends.
What does unconquered mean to you? Having a positive growth mindset that encompasses patience, tolerance, understanding and compassion towards myself and others.
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