WiFi SPARK's Dave Watts joins Team UK for the 2018 Invictus Games in Australia

As Armistice Day fast approaches, it’s a time for the nation to reflect on the lives lost, on all sides, during conflicts past and present. But, also, to admire the courage and bravery of the men and women who serve their country.

WiFi SPARK is proud to hold a bronze award for the Defense Employers Recognition Scheme, a scheme encompassing awards for organisations that pledge, demonstrate and advocate support to defence and the armed forces community.

The award reiterates that WiFi SPARK is armed forces-friendly and we have employed six individuals - who were formerly in the armed forces - in several roles, including engineering, project management as well as Ian Lynch, WiFi SPARK’s Chief Operating Officer.

For WiFi SPARK, this year is an extra special and exciting one for the entire team as Dave Watts, one of our Project Managers, will be heading to Australia to compete in the 2018 Invictus Games.

Image Credit: Exmouth Journal. Read more about Dave's exploits in the Exmouth Journal here.

Founded by Prince Harry, the aim of the Invictus Games is to challenge perceptions and send a positive message about life beyond disability to an international audience. Allowing those that have been tested and challenged to rightfully shine in the limelight while highlighting the importance of sport and physical activity during the rehabilitation journey of unconquerable injured, wounded and ill service members and veterans.

It will be ‘Game On Down Under’ when WiFi SPARK’s own Dave will be part of the 72-person team heading to Sydney, where he will be captaining the swimming team while also competing in archery and athletics.

Following a rigorous selection process, the Royal Marine Colour Sergeant has stated that training for the Invictus Games has provided him with an outlet for him to cope better with PTSD and the pain management issues he faces from an ongoing injury to his wrist.

He said: “Swimming and archery are helping me cope with my traumatic experiences from Afghanistan and help to strengthen my wrist injury. I believe that being around individuals that are going through what I am will help in my recovery.”

“I may be unable to serve my country as a Royal Marine on the battlefield, but I can still serve my country with fellow comrades in sport.” Dave Watts, WiFi SPARK Project Manager and 2018 Invictus Games Team UK Swimming Captain

Dave’s injury is permanent, but the entire team at WiFi SPARK couldn’t be more proud of the way he’s recognised the need to look after both his physical and psychological fitness for both himself and for the sake of his family.

In what promises to be a memorable week in Sydney, the entire WiFi SPARK organisation will be tuning in to see how Team UK progresses and showing our full and well-deserved support to Dave.

Good luck, Dave!