Bringing home the gold

An Air Force sergeant has returned from Japan with a gold medal after Australia defeated New Zealand 5-3 in the Men Over 40 final of the Asia Pacific Seniors Touch Cup in Utsunomiya.

SGT Luke Boulton was part of the Australian Emus side that claimed the title, capping a strong campaign against the best senior players in the region.

“After months of preparation concentrating on team structures, platforms and connection, my team was able to perform outstandingly,” SGT Boulton said.

“Through a lot of hard work, we made it through to the final, where we beat New Zealand 5-3 to come away with the gold medal.”

It was a dominant tournament for Australia. The Emus reached the final in all 10 divisions, winning seven gold medals and three silver.

SGT Boulton appreciates the many parallels between football and his Air Force service, especially the concept of putting it all on the line for the nation.

“Playing for Australia means everything to me. To have the opportunity to wear the gold jersey allows me to represent the ADF, as well as my region, family and friends,” he said.

“The Australian Touch Football motto is ‘Country, Team, Self’, which puts into perspective who and what you are representing. It makes all of the discipline, hard work and sacrifice worthwhile.”

SGT Boulton, who works in the Mechanical Equipment Operation Maintenance Section at RAAF Base Williamtown’s 26SQN, has served in the Air Force for 24 years.

He took up playing touch football later in life, following a semi-professional career in AFL.

SGT Boulton believes playing high-performance sport throughout his career has enhanced aspects of his service life, including leadership and excellence.

“The support provided by the section, unit and wider ADF has been phenomenal. I have been allowed the opportunity to train and prepare to the best of my ability thanks largely to this support,” he said.

SGT Boulton, who is also an ADF fitness leader, is recognised by the Air Force Sports Council (AFSC) as an elite sports participant.

Aviators selected to compete at national or international level can apply for this recognition through their commander or manager, with approval from the AFSC’s Chair. Support can include duty status for competition and reimbursement of costs such as entry fees.