Photo By Staff Sgt. Latasha Price | Retired U.S. Army Capt. Tony J. Smith, Team Army athlete and Warrior Games competitor,...... read more read more
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Healing Forward: Retired Army Captain Finds Purpose Through Warrior Games Recovery SAN ANTONIO, Texas — For retired Army Capt. Tony J. Smith, the Warrior Games are about far more than competition.
Adaptive sports are a vital pillar in the healing and recovery journey of every competitor. The Warrior Games stand as a powerful symbol of the resilience of our service members and the unwavering support of their families and our nation.
A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Smith spent years leading Soldiers before injuries and mental health challenges forced him to confront a battle he never expected to face.
"I felt like I was alone," Smith said.
Diagnosed with, post-traumatic stress disorder anxiety, and depression, Smith said recovery required him to do something far more difficult than competing in sports, it required him to ask for help.
"When I couldn't fake it anymore, I actually had to do the work," he said, “the work for me was focusing on my mental health."
Through the Soldier Recovery Unit at Fort Hood, Texas, Smith found a team of providers, coaches, and fellow service members who helped him rebuild his confidence and rediscover his purpose. Today, he represents Team Army at Warrior Games, competing in powerlifting, cycling, rowing, and track and field events.
For Smith, powerlifting represents more than strength. After tearing both pectoral muscles and undergoing multiple surgeries, he wasn't sure he would ever return to lifting.
"It wasn't the strength aspect," Smith said. "It was getting my confidence back."
Cycling has become another source of healing. What began as a physical challenge evolved into a meaningful connection with his father, who is an avid cyclist who has ridden in all 50 states and abroad.
The relationships Smith built throughout his recovery remain central to his success.
"My family, my friends, my teammates, I know I would not be here without them," he said.
As he looks beyond the Warrior Games, Smith plans to pursue a degree in kinesiology at the University of Central Florida with the goal of working in physical therapy, recreational therapy, or mental health services.
"The Army has given me the resources, even at my lowest point," Smith said. "Now I feel like I'm indebted to give back."
Smith hopes his story encourages other service members to seek help when they need it.
"Vulnerability will get you through anything in life," he said. "You're your number one advocate."
For Smith, the Warrior Games symbolize healing, growth, and the next chapter of service, one focused not only on recovery but also on helping others find their way forward.
| Date Taken: | 06.12.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 06.16.2026 15:11 |
| Story ID: | 567667 |
| Location: | SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 14 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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Competitor Profile: Retired Capt. Tony J. Smith
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