For Snap-on franchisee Steve Fell, a competitor in the 2017 Invictus Games, there is no such thing as obstacles and if you put your mind to something, you can accomplish it, no matter your situation in life.
Held in Toronto over the week of September 23rd – 30th, Invictus Games is an international sporting event that brings together those who have been injured while serving their country. The games harness the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for those who have served their country. The word ‘Invictus’ in Latin translates to unconquered, or undefeated and certainly rings true for Steve Fell and his attitude toward life, be that in his business or competitive sport.
After becoming injured while working as a mechanic in the Royal New Zealand Mechanical and Electrical Engineers (RNZEME) Steve became, over time, confined to a wheelchair and had to adapt to a new reality. Not letting his new situation get the better of him, and after finishing his military work, he packed up and moved to Australia, where an opportunity to become a Snap-on Franchisee has translated to 17 years of a proud, successful and happy career.
As an avid sportsman from a young age, just as in his career, there would also be no barriers to his sporting endeavours. Steve adapted and continued training and playing various team sports, which included a stint playing for Brisbane in the national wheelchair basketball competition.
The brainchild of Prince Harry, the inaugural Invictus Games was held in 2014 and only came onto Steve’s radar last year. After confirming his eligibility the seed was sown, Toronto becoming the goal to ramp up his training. As a true sports all-rounder, Steve will compete for New Zealand in wheelchair tennis, basketball, indoor rowing and swimming.
“I’m training a few hours of tennis and basketball a week but my secret training weapon is the hills I live amongst. They are a tough training course. Resistance training with rubber bands and swimming compliment the regime, plus the occasional trip back to NZ to train with other team mates,” said Steve.
As one of Australia’s leading Franchise models, Snap-on has been along for the ride with Steve throughout his journey, to ensure he has the support that he needs, which has included a customised mobile store to suit his requirements, through to Snap-on’s direct support of his Invictus Games campaign in Toronto.
“We’re extremely proud of Steve. From his positive outlook on life, to his work and fitness ethics, Steve has proven disability should be no barrier to a career. Snap-on Tools Australia and New Zealand will be cheering him on at the Invictus Games and we wish him the best of luck,” said Snap-on National Sales Manager, Paul Lynch.
Steve only takes time off work for training when he has to, as he genuinely loves his job, looking forward to waking up knowing he is his own boss and can get out and interact with the great people he deals with every day.
“The support from Snap-on has been amazing and I’m very fortunate they have been so accommodating over my 17 years of successful business under their great Franchise model, one that I thoroughly recommend.”
“I don’t feel I have any limitations whatsoever in my career or sport and as they say, if there is a will, there is a way. With support of family, friends and Snap-on, I can enjoy work and play and I look forward to the Invictus Games experience,” said Steve.