“We genuinely had no idea the impact this was going to have.”
The Invictus Games' inspiration is felt far beyond the military community.
Let’s take a closer look at the Invictus Games and howPrince Harryhas shaped this worldwide event.
Prince Harry also got into the action and attempted to learn some of the sports, including sitting volleyball.
The prince deeply respected his service mates.
That attitude extends to everything he touches, including the Invictus Games.
As a fellow veteran, he understood what returning soldiers would need to return to their families and heal.
The service personnel he works with appreciate that he has firsthand experience.
“He knows what it’s like out there,” British Army Capt.
Dave Henson told the Associated Press (viaUSA Today).
“[Harry’s] been on the ground and in the air.”
Veterans Affairsreported that 23% of VA users and 7% of non-users have PTSD in their lifetime.
According toPharmacy & Therapeutics, psychological trauma that is induced by fighting in wars has been well-documented throughout history.
Retired Master Corporal Joel Guidon toldU.S.
What’s more, the sense of community at the tournament is beyond apparent.
A Foundation spokesperson toldNewsweekthat the prince “remains as involved as ever.”
The first Invictus Games was held in London in 2014.
Sydney hosted in 2018, and then the 2020 Games were postponed.
Two years later, the Foundation felt ready to host again.
A city transformed, The Hague inspired a nation."
Countries who participate in the Foundation still have to be invited to the Invictus Games.
Many of the sports have similar rules and concepts to their non-adapted counterparts.
The seated format gives amputees a chance to play competitive rallies from the floor.
Road cycling bikes and athlete wheelchairs can also be fitted to accommodate various injuries and amputations.
The Foundation has a few basic rules that must be followed.
In late 2022, theU.S.
Armyannounced the 59 athletes chosen to represent the U.S. in Dusseldorf Invictus Games in 2023.
Athletes represent all branches of the U.S. military, including Special Operations and the U.S. Coast Guard.
