Fifteen of Queensland's top under-18 ice hockey players and their coaches swapped skates for combat boots during a unique team-building day at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane.
Hosted by Wing Commander Taffie Smith, the visit aimed to strengthen team cohesion and sharpen strategy ahead of the national tournament in Perth.
"The objective was to conduct team-building and develop team strategies for the national tournament," said Wing Commander Smith, Air Force's Deputy Director Workforce - Aviation.
"It was great to give them a taste of what we do in the ADF and the values we share: teamwork, resilience and trust."
The program began with a visit to the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment, where players explored an Australian Light Armoured Vehicle and the new Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle. The group then took on the base overwater obstacle course - a physical challenge that Wing Commander Smith said the players embraced wholeheartedly.
"Every single player gave it a go and encouraged each other through the course," he said.
"That's the kind of spirit that wins games."
The visit was supported by Major Bart Gladysz from Army Aviation, whose assistance Wing Commander Smith described as "invaluable" in facilitating the day.
Queensland went on to finish fourth at the tournament after a hard-fought 3-2 semi-final loss in overtime to eventual champions New South Wales.
Wing Commander Smith's connection to the sport began during his time on Command and Staff Course in Canada in 2016.
"It was almost a requirement for foreign students to play," he said.
"I joined in, loved it and kept playing when I came back to Australia. I got involved in coaching when my eldest son started playing at 11."
Since then, he has coached junior and adult development teams and now assists with the U18 Queensland side - a role made even more special as his son is one of the players.
As President of the ADF Ice Hockey Association (ADFIHA), Wing Commander Smith also focused on building the sport within Defence.
"The Air Force are the current triservice champions and we're looking forward to defending that title in November," he said.
The ADFIHA Triservice Carnival will be held in Melbourne from November 16 to 22. Members with ice hockey experience - from development level through to the Australian Ice Hockey League - are encouraged to nominate.
"If you haven't played before but want to, there are beginner pathways through local clubs and rinks," Wing Commander Smith said.
"It's never too late to give it a try."
