Military Veteran Athletes’ Experiences of Competing at the 2016 Invictus Games: A Qualitative Study

Abstract: Previous research has championed sport as a form of recovery for military veterans. Nevertheless, there is a lack of research on military veterans’ experiences of international sporting competitions. The aim of this study was to explore military veterans’ experiences of participation at the 2016 Invictus Games. Methods: Fifteen military veterans (10 male, 5 female) who participated in the 2016 Invictus Games were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore experiences pre, during, and post-competition, and analyzed using applied thematic analysis. Three overarching themes were identified: Sources of motivation consisted of a range of veteran specific motives for getting involved with and continuing participation with the Games. Team and culture stressors encapsulated organizational demands related to the attitudes and behaviors of a sports team operating within the context of the Invictus Games. Impact of the games comprised veterans’ perceptions of positive and negative consequences of being involved with the Games. The study provides insight into the multitude of motives military veterans have for engaging in sport, whilst also demonstrating the novel organizational demands that veteran athletes encounter. The findings also offer preliminary insight regarding the impact of the Games and the potential for psychoeducation program implementation to support athletes post-Games.