My name is Luke David. I’m 34 years old and I live with a condition called Nemaline Myopathy. I’ve used a powerchair and a ventilator to support my breathing since I was 3 years old. I was first introduced to powerchair sport in 2005 at a Muscular Dystrophy Australia camp. Since then, it has shaped almost every part of my life. I’ve represented Victoria for many years, competed at Asia Pacific Oceania Cups in 2013 and 2025, and I’ve also been part of the Melbourne City Powerchair team since 2015, captaining the side and leading the team to a National Championship in 2025.

In 2026, I have the opportunity to represent Australia on the world stage once again. In May, I’ll be competing with the Australian Sliders at the Powerchair Hockey World Championships in Finland. Later in the year, I’m also working toward the chance to represent Australia in Powerchair Football at the World Cup in Argentina. If both come together, it would mark my third and potentially fourth World Cups wearing the green and gold. I represented Australia in Italy in 2018 (Hockey) and again in Sydney in 2023 (Football). To now be in a position to do it again, and potentially across two sports in the same year, is something I don’t take for granted.

What sport has given me goes far beyond competition. It’s led to my first job, building a business, presenting in front of large groups, getting married, and becoming a father. It’s introduced me to lifelong friendships and a strong community that has shaped who I am today. It has given me purpose, direction, and a sense of belonging that I never thought would be possible growing up. As a kid, I never imagined I would experience any of this. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I’m driven to keep pushing what’s possible.

Competing at this level comes with significant cost. Unlike many athletes, we don’t receive the funding needed to cover travel, accommodation, and tournament expenses. In my case, those costs are higher again as I need to travel with a support worker. With international competition ahead in 2026, I’m raising funds to help make this journey possible. Donations will go toward flights and accommodation for myself and my support worker, travel to interstate training, and specialised equipment. Any support, whether financial or in-kind, would make a meaningful difference. I would also be more than happy to give a presentation and share my experiences in return.

I’ll be sharing the journey along the way. Thank you to anyone who chooses to be part of it.