Warrant Officer Nigel Worthington proves it's never too late to step up to the crease as veterans sport gains traction in the Air Force as a vibrant avenue for camaraderie, competition and personal growth.
Representing the Australian Capital Territory at the National Veterans Over 50s Cricket Competition, Warrant Officer Worthington's journey back to the sport after a 25-year break highlights the inclusive and supportive nature of veterans sports for aviators, while also reflecting the teamwork and resilience valued in Air Force life.
An aviation technician who enlisted in 1995, Warrant Officer Worthington is now an Elite Sports Participant supported by the Air Force Sports Council, after his lifelong passion for cricket was reignited through Canberra's local veterans competition.
"Anyone who knows me would consider the label of 'elite' as a bit of a misnomer in my case and will probably bring a good laugh," he said.
"People I played with in the local Canberra veterans competition as well as my Air Force colleagues were really supportive in trying to get me involved in the ACT representative program."
Competing against teams from New Zealand, South Australia, NSW and Western Australia, Warrant Officer Worthington found the tournament atmosphere competitive but community-minded, mirroring the values of respect and shared purpose that underpin Air Force teams.
"I cannot imagine anyone I encountered having a bad thing to say about the experience at the carnival or veterans' cricket in general," he said.
"I have come across people from all walks of life and everyone has been enthusiastic about the wellbeing benefits for themselves and the people they're around."
Warrant Officer Worthington's standout tournament moments included a gritty batting performance in a successful run chase against South Australia and taking three wickets against Western Australia to secure a win on the final day.
"I was lucky to make a contribution in the game against South Australia where I batted for the last 12 or so overs, and got three wickets against Western Australia, which helped us get a win," he said.
'I've had a million great moments with the people I played with and against.'
While he enjoyed individual highlights, Warrant Officer Worthington placed equal value on the collective spirit, drawing parallels to Air Force culture.
"I had some unique and unexpected experiences running into people I had played with and against in junior cricket from childhood, which was pretty mind blowing - lots of old 'war stories' … and some new ones," he said.
Veterans cricket, spanning over-40s to over-70s, offers a welcoming environment for players of all backgrounds and provides opportunities to strengthen attributes highly regarded in Air Force service, such as resilience, adaptability and teamwork.
Serving at Air Force Headquarters in Canberra, Warrant Officer Worthington credited the stability of his role and strong support from his chain of command for enabling his participation.
"I've been really lucky to be in a role with stable routine and requirements, which has made it all relatively achievable," he said.
Playing Premier Grade Cricket for North Canberra Gungahlin Cricket Club since returning to the sport, he reflected on the importance of creating environments that bring out the best in people.
"Good environments create good outcomes," Warrant Officer Worthington said.
His experience in veterans cricket has reinforced the Air Force principle that strong teams achieve more than individuals alone.
"My foray into veterans sport has really been amazing and I would encourage anyone eligible to seek out some new experiences where there is some time and inclination," Warrant Officer Worthington said.
"I've had a million great moments with the people I played with and against.
"I want to use this platform to recommend veterans sports to anyone eligible with even minor connections from their 'mis-spent youth' - really supportive environments and great fun."
