The Power of Coaching and Giving Back - Kai Cziesla | International Coaching Week
"The spirit of the Invictus Games and the colours of black and yellow have become a north star in my life.”
As part of International Coaching Week, we will be sharing a daily series of inspiring video stories from members of our international community, who have found purpose through coaching and giving back - This is Kai's story.
Master Sgt Kai Cziesla began to feel like didn't belong as a member of the Armed Forces after suffering a severe knee injury and struggled with his identity after serving in the German Armed Forces for many years.
Kai was selected as a member of Team Germany for the inaugural Invictus Games London 2014 and has had his life changed since discovering the rehabilitative and transformative power of sport.
He would go on to also compete at the Invictus Games Orlando 2016 and Toronto 2017 and become a member of the We Are Invictus Community, where he connected with the Invictus Community, beyond the games.
Kai recently took part in an Invictus Adventure to the wilderness of Borneo to retrace the steps of the Sandakan Death Marches endured by Allied Prisoners of War during World War II.
There he was able to connect with other members of the Invictus Community, continue his personal recovery journey and forge a connection with nature.
Kai's journey at the Invictus Games didn't stop after his time as a competitor came to an end, he wanted to give back to Team Germany and began to work as coach with particular interest in Indoor Rowing, a sport he medalled in at the Invictus Games.
Recently, Kai attended the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, the first ever winter hybrid edition of the Games and spoke to us on the importance of coaching and giving back to the community.
Discover Kai's story of healing below.