Team Australia Gears Up for Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023

In the upcoming Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023, Australia is poised to make its mark led by newly announced co-captains Flight Sergeant Nathan King and Able Seaman Taryn Dickens. The duo will be at the helm of Team Australia's contingent, a combined force of 31 current and former military personnel. The team, accompanied by over 90 family members and friends, will compete in the Games slated for 9-16 September. 

Flight Sergeant King, an experienced aircraft technician, is set to make his second appearance at the Invictus Games. His decision to return was driven by a desire to mentor new competitors and redouble his training and rehabilitation efforts following a sporting injury. The incident left him hospitalised in intensive care for six weeks, with limited use of his left leg. Reflecting on his appointment as co-captain, King emphasised the honour and privilege of leading the team. He stated, "Being able to lead such an incredible group of people is truly an honour, and I am grateful to have been considered for the role." 

Flight Sergeant Nathan King (left), Assistant Minister for Defence, Assistant Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Assistant Minister for the Republic, The Honourable Matt Thistlethwaite MP and Able Seaman Taryn Dickens cut the official Invictus Games 2023 cake during the announcement of the co-captains at the Sydney Academy of Sports and Recreation, Narabeen, Sydney (Photo by CPOIS Andrew Dakin, from Department of Defence)

Similarly, Able Seaman Dickens, a weapons rate electronics technician at HMAS Harman, expressed surprise and excitement at being named co-captain. She noted the positive team culture and camaraderie built through team camps. Dickens said, "We have had a few team camps now, so the team knows each other well, and the culture in the team is really supportive. It's a great environment." 

The Invictus Games, a global adaptive multi-sports competition, will be hosted for the first time in Germany, specifically in Düsseldorf. The Games are jointly organised by The German Federal Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) and the city of Düsseldorf. The games demonstrate and promote the resilience, determination, and spirit of serving and former military personnel who have been injured, wounded, or have become ill during their military service. The event is expected to draw up to 500 participants from 22 nations worldwide. 

Team Australia's selection reflects the essence of the Invictus Games, according to the team's Chef de Mission, Brigadier Phil Winter. He said, "They and their teammates represent the epitome of resilience and the Australian spirit. The Invictus Games allow Australia to celebrate determination, mateship and honour with others worldwide who have also shown resilience in times of adversity." 

The competition will feature individual and team sports, including archery, athletics, indoor rowing, powerlifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, table tennis, swimming, wheelchair basketball, and wheelchair rugby. Team Australia, backed by the ADF and Invictus Australia, is eager to compete and showcase their skills in these challenging disciplines. 

For more information about the Australian team and the Invictus Games, visit the official website at defence.gov.au/invictusgames