The World Combat Games saw a weekend filled with mixed emotions for our Australian athletes who gave their all against the world's best.

While the team may not have achieved the outcome they had hoped for, they greatly appreciate for the opportunity to embark on this incredible journey at the World Combat Games and experience the thrill of the Mixed Team format on foreign soil.

Australia's first match was against Turkey. Turkey had already demonstrated their prowess with a nail-biting victory over Mexico, winning by a mere two points. When they met Australia in the opening match, their distance, timing, and accuracy were well versed, as well as
three of their four players holding Olympic rankings under 100.

In a round-robin format, Australia had a second chance to prove its mettle against Mexico. The Mexican team boasted two players with Olympic rankings under 100, and Australia seized the opportunity to redeem itself.

The team rallied and took the fight to Mexico, and the coach couldn't have been prouder of their determination and grit. From the very first minute, the Mexicans knew Australia were in for a fierce battle, and a sense of panic seemed to grip their team. The final scores did not reflect how close the match was.

The experience our young team gained on this journey was truly priceless. The experience achieved for our young team was invaluable, with great learnings and growth. The team sparring format is also unique; the bonding of the team was outstanding.